Marabou Stork
NameMarabou Stork
Common NameMarabou Stork
Scientific NameLeptoptilos crumenifer
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)256
Length (cm)133
Weight (g)6700
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey upperparts and wings, contrasting with white underparts. The head and neck are largely bare, pinkish, and often blotchy, with sparse blackish bristles. A large, inflatable pink gular sac hangs from the throat, and the legs are pale grey.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce guttural croaks, grunts, and hisses, especially during breeding season. Bill-clattering is also used in displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, savanna, grassland, swamp, lakeshore, riverbank, human settlement
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west to Ethiopia and Somalia in the east, and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesMassive, wedge-shaped bill, Bare, pinkish head and neck, Large pink gular sac on throat, Dark grey upperparts, white underparts, Very long legs
Description
The Marabou Stork is a large, distinctive wading bird known for its massive bill, bare head and neck, and a prominent pink gular sac. Often seen scavenging or wading in shallow waters, it is a common sight across much of sub-Saharan Africa.
