Shoebill
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Fiorellino" title="User:Fiorellino">Olaf Oliviero Riemer</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameShoebill
Common NameShoebill
Scientific NameBalaeniceps rex
FamilyBalaenicipitidae
Wingspan (cm)245
Length (cm)125
Weight (g)5500
Plumage DetailsAdults exhibit a slate-grey plumage, often appearing shaggy, with a distinctive shaggy crest on the back of the head. The flight feathers are darker, while the underparts are a lighter grey. The massive bill is yellowish with dark grey mottling and streaks.
Vocalization / CallShoebills are generally silent but are known for loud bill-clattering, especially during nesting and greeting rituals. They also produce hooting, whining, and cow-like mooing sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater swamps, marshes, wetlands, papyrus beds
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in East-Central Africa, primarily in large freshwater swamps and marshes from South Sudan and Ethiopia south through Uganda, Rwanda, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to Zambia.
Identifying Featuresmassive shoe-shaped bill, slate-grey plumage, large size, shaggy crest, pale blue eyes
Description
The Shoebill is a large, stork-like bird characterized by its unique, shoe-shaped bill. It is a solitary and patient hunter, often standing motionless for extended periods in shallow waters, waiting for prey.
