Lesser Adjutant
NameLesser Adjutant
Common NameLesser Adjutant
Scientific NameLeptoptilos javanicus
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)115
Weight (g)4850
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey upperparts, wings, and tail, contrasting with white underparts. The head and neck are largely bare, yellowish to reddish, with sparse, hair-like feathers. The bill is large, heavy, and pale yellowish-grey.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce deep croaks, grunts, and bill-clattering sounds, especially during breeding season or when disturbed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Dark upperparts, white underparts, Bare yellowish head and neck, Massive, pale, wedge-shaped bill, Often seen soaring or wading in wetlands
Description
The Lesser Adjutant is a large wading bird with dark upperparts and white underparts, characterized by its bare, yellowish head and neck and a massive, pale bill. It is often found in wetlands, foraging for a variety of prey or scavenging.
