Sunday, July 24, 2016

Marabou Stork

Species: Marabou Stork
Habitat: African savanna
DAK Locale: Animal Kingdom Lodge
Status: Least concern

This stork is huge, reaching a height of 5 feet in some instances, with a wingspan reaching up to nearly 12 feet.  It is also called the undertaker bird, not only for its appearance but due to its propensity for eating carrion. This diet is also one reason it has adapted to having a bald head like the vultures.  


It is a colonial breeder. During the savanna's dry season, they will nest in treetops, laying 2 or 3 eggs. It is not very vocal, but does engage in bill rattling displays. It is a wading bird, like other storks, but while common around lakes, will also be found in the more arid areas of the savanna.


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