Marabou Stork
Image: dylanbot (cc-by-nc)
NameMarabou Stork
Common NameMarabou Stork
Scientific NameLeptoptilos crumenifer
FamilyCiconiidae
Wingspan (cm)260
Length (cm)130
Weight (g)6500
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey/black upperparts, wings, and tail, contrasting with white underparts. The head and neck are largely bare and pinkish, with a distinctive large gular sac (pouch) at the front of the neck.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce guttural croaks, grunts, and hisses, especially at the nest. Bill-clattering is also used during courtship and territorial displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, wetland, marshes, lakeshores, riverbanks, human settlements, landfills
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west to Eritrea and Somalia in the east, and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Bare pinkish head and neck, Large gular sac (pouch) on neck, Dark grey/black upperparts with white underparts, Massive, wedge-shaped bill, Soaring flight with wings held flat
Description
The Marabou Stork is a very large wading bird, often called the 'undertaker bird' due to its hunched posture and dark back. It is a prominent scavenger in its African range, frequently seen soaring on thermals or congregating at carrion.
