Marabou Stork
NameMarabou Stork
Common NameMarabou Stork
Scientific NameLeptoptilos crumenifer
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)250
Length (cm)130
Weight (g)6000
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey upperparts, wings, and tail, contrasting with white underparts and a white ruff of feathers at the base of the neck. The head and neck are largely bare, pinkish to reddish, with sparse, wispy hair-like feathers on the crown and a prominent pink gular sac (pouch) hanging from the throat.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, Marabou Storks produce grunts, croaks, and hisses, especially during breeding season or when disturbed. Bill-clattering is also a common form of communication.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, wetland, near human settlements, landfills
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Eritrea and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Bare pinkish head and neck, Massive wedge-shaped bill, Prominent gular sac (pouch) on neck, White ruff of feathers at base of neck, Dark grey upperparts and white underparts
Description
The Marabou Stork is a massive wading bird known for its bald head, large bill, and scavenging habits. Often referred to as the 'undertaker bird' due to its dark back and white underparts, it is a prominent sight in African landscapes, frequently found near carrion or human settlements.
