Asian Openbill
NameAsian Openbill
Common NameAsian Openbill
Scientific NameAnastomus oscitans
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)148.5
Length (cm)74.5
Weight (g)1600
Plumage DetailsAdults have predominantly greyish-white plumage, contrasting with glossy black flight feathers and tail. The long, heavy bill is dull yellowish-grey, often with a reddish tinge towards the tip, and features a unique open gap between the mandibles. Legs are dull pinkish.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but can produce bill-clattering sounds, especially during breeding displays. Other vocalizations include low grunts or hisses.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across tropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Southeast Asia, including countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive bill with a visible gap between the mandibles (in adults), Greyish-white body with black flight feathers, Long legs and neck, typical of a stork, Often seen wading in shallow water or rice paddies
Description
The Asian Openbill is a medium-sized stork characterized by its distinctive bill, which has a noticeable gap between the upper and lower mandibles in adults. It primarily forages in shallow wetlands, using its specialized bill to extract molluscs from their shells. This species is often seen wading gracefully in flooded fields and marshes.
