Dennis the crane welcomes chick at Pensthorpe in Fakehenham

Dennis the Eurasian crane and his mate, Mrs Dennis, fell deeply in love after meeting at the Pensthorpe Natural Park near Fakenham - but despite their best efforts, they could not have a chick of their own.

Understanding their desperation, the team at Pensthorpe decided to carefully switch an infertile egg with a healthy alternative which was incubated and eventually hatched into a chick.

Baby Dennis Junior - or DJ for short - loves to nestle into his father's wing (Image: Paul Raddon)

Dennis had faced plenty of trauma in the run-up to fatherhood, making the new arrival all the more heartwarming for those who love him.

Dennis began his life as an egg in Germany and was brought to the UK as part of the Great Crane Project, a five-year conservation scheme to reintroduce Eurasian cranes to the Somerset levels.

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The programme saw 94 cranes being released into the wild - but Dennis was left behind after developing cataracts in both eyes and undergoing surgery which permanently affected his eyesight.

This turn of events was meant to be, as it was then that Dennis formed a strong bond with the female who became affectionally known as Mrs Dennis.

'It's heartwarming to see the bond they share' (Image: Steve Adams)

Chrissie Kelley, head of species management at Pensthorpe, said Dennis has naturally taken to fatherhood and instinctively dotes on his chick, who has been named Dennis Junior or DJ for short.

The team finds it particularly endearing to watch the chick nestle on Dennis' back, partially tucked under his wing.

"Dennis has done an extraordinary job," Ms Kelley said.

"Watching him care for DJ, even with his unique challenges, is a testament to his dedication and resilience.

"It’s heartwarming to see the bond they share and the love and protection both parents provide."