Location:

Secretary bird habitat

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Yellow-billed Stork

Duckie (M) 4/16/2013

Identifying Features:

History:

Moly (F) 1/12/1998 | Passed away 3/11/24

More Information:

Native to fresh and saltwater wetlands of central and southern Africa
Some populations have irregular migrations, some populations are sedentary
Most of the stork's body is crisp white, but when their wings are spread, their primary feathers are jet black, creating a striking contrast.
Sometimes, especially during breeding season, their wings an underparts take on a subtle pink hue.
Breeding occurs when food is most abundant
Diet: small aquatic prey such as frogs, small fish, insects, worms, crustaceans, and occasionally small mammals or birds
Lifespan: 20-30 years in captivity
IUCN - least concern

Fun Fact: To feed, they put their beak in water and move it back and forth until it bumps into something, them closes it's beak. It's easy to find food as water is drying up in the dry season and food concentrates. Large groups may be seen having a feast!