African Woolly-necked Stork
NameAfrican Woolly-necked Stork
Common NameAfrican Woolly-necked Stork
Scientific NameCiconia episcopus
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)116
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a distinctive white, woolly neck and upper breast, contrasting with a glossy black cap. The body plumage is dark, appearing blackish with iridescent purplish-green sheens on the back and wings. The lower belly and undertail coverts are white. The bill is reddish-pink with a darker tip, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but can produce hisses and bill-clattering, especially during breeding displays or when disturbed at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Sub-Saharan Africa, with a disjunct population in South and Southeast Asia. It inhabits a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Identifying FeaturesWhite woolly neck, Black cap, Dark iridescent body plumage, Reddish-pink bill with dark tip, Long dark legs
Description
The African Woolly-necked Stork is a large wading bird characterized by its striking white, fluffy neck and dark, iridescent body plumage. It is typically found foraging in wetlands and grasslands, often solitary or in small groups, searching for a variety of small prey.
