Greater Adjutant
NameGreater Adjutant
Common NameGreater Adjutant
Scientific NameLeptoptilos dubius
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)225
Length (cm)142.5
Weight (g)9500
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey upperparts and wings, contrasting with white underparts. The head and neck are largely bare, displaying reddish-orange skin, and a large, pendulous pinkish gular pouch hangs from the neck. The massive bill is yellowish-grey.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce deep croaks, grunts, and bill-clattering, particularly during breeding season at the nest.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, urban
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeHistorically found across South and Southeast Asia, its current breeding range is restricted primarily to Assam (India) and Cambodia, with small populations in Vietnam.
Identifying Featuresmassive wedge-shaped bill, bare reddish-orange head and neck, large pinkish gular pouch, grey upperparts and white underparts, large size
Description
The Greater Adjutant is a massive stork characterized by its bare head and neck, a large wedge-shaped bill, and a prominent gular pouch. It is a scavenger and opportunistic predator, often seen in wetlands and near human settlements.
