Mycteria leucocephala
The Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is a striking, large wading bird belonging to the Ciconiidae family, closely related to other 'wood-storks' like the Yellow-billed Stork and Wood Stork. Adults typically measure 93-102 cm (37-40 in) in length with an impressive wingspan of 150-160 cm (59-63 in) and weigh between 2-3.5 kg (4.4-7.7 lbs). Their plumage is predominantly white, often with a delicate pinkish wash, especially on the lower back and tertials, which gives them their 'painted' m...
Found in tropical and subtropical wetlands, including marshes, flooded fields, irrigation canals, rivers, and coastal lagoons, typically in low-lying areas up to 500 meters in elevation.
Primarily carnivorous, feeding on fish, frogs, insects, small reptiles, and crustaceans, caught by tactile foraging (groping) in shallow water.
Painted Storks are diurnal birds, spending their days foraging in shallow waters and roosting communally in large trees at night, often with other waterbirds. Their primary foraging strategy involves 'tacto-location' or 'groping': they walk slowly through shallow water with their partly open bill...
The Painted Stork is a widespread resident and partial migrant across tropical Asia. Its primary breeding and year-round range extends across the Indian subcontinent, encompassing India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and parts of Myanmar. Further east, it is a resident breeder throughout Southeas...
Near Threatened
- The 'painted' part of their name comes from the delicate pink wash on their tertial feathers, particularly noticeable during breeding season. - They are one of the few bird species that use 'tacto-location' or 'groping' to find food, sensing prey through touch with their sensitive bills. - Desp...