Marabou Stork

Leptoptilos crumeniferus

Marabou storks nest in large colonies that consist of 20 to 60 pairs but may number in the thousands. They will return to the same colony and nest site every year for mating. Males will arrive first to establish territory, inflating their gular sacs and greeting all visitors with equal hostility. Females will respond passively and when accepted as a mate, will inflate their own sacs and repel intruders as well. Although the same nest can be used over again, extensive rebuilding is required.

Unlike most storks, the Marabou flies with its neck retracted, like a heron. But like most storks, the Marabous are a gregarious bird. They are not very vocal but will indulge in bill-rattling during courtship displays. The throat sacs are inflated and used to make some noises at that time.

Fun Fact:

The marabou stork’s legs and feet are dark grey, but the build up of excrement makes them appear almost white and is thought to aid in thermoregulation

Conservation Threats:

Least Concern

Natural Habitat

Open savannas near large lakes or rivers and near human settlements

Range

Sub-Saharan Africa

Size

Height: 5 ft

Weight: 20 lbs

Wing Span: 7.5-9.5 ft

Lifespan

Up to 25 years in the wild, up to 40 years in managed care

Gestation

A female will lay about 2-3 eggs with an incubation period of 29-31 days

Diet Details

Carcasses, fish, small vertebrates, insects, human trash

ZooTampa at Lowry Park Zoological Society of Tampa, Inc., an independent 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to excellence in conservation, education, recreation and research. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is featured among the “Top 25 Zoos in the U.S” by TripAdvisor.

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