Storks
Order: CICONIIFORMES - Family: CICONIIDAE |
20 Species currently existing - 3 in region |
Storks are large, long-legged wading birds belonging to the family Ciconiidae. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with long necks, long legs, and typically long, pointed bills. Here are some key points about storks:
Habitat: Storks are found in various habitats worldwide, including wetlands, grasslands, savannas, and forests. They are often associated with water bodies where they can find food such as fish, frogs, insects, and small mammals.
Migration: Many stork species are migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. Storks are known for their impressive migration journeys, often covering thousands of kilometers.
Reproduction: Storks are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which often involve bill clattering, bowing, and aerial displays. They typically build large stick nests in trees or on man-made structures, where they raise their young. Storks are known for their strong pair bonds and often mate for life.
Symbolism: Storks have gained cultural significance in various societies and folklore. In many cultures, storks are seen as symbols of good luck, fertility, and birth. They are often associated with bringing babies to families, a belief that has been popularized in myths and stories.
Conservation: Some stork species are facing threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and collisions with power lines. Conservation efforts are in place to protect stork populations, including habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and monitoring of nesting sites.
Storks are fascinating birds with unique behaviors and adaptations. Their presence in different ecosystems plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of local food webs.
Wood Stork
Mycteria americana
Spanish Name: Cabeza-de-hueso
Size: 38 in | 97 cm
Habitat: Mangrove, marshes, shallow savanna pools.
Height: <2200 m
Photo: © Rio Dante eBird S48451071 Macaulay Library ML 114579011
Maguari Stork
Ciconia maguari
Spanish Name: Cigüeña Llanera
Size: 40 in | 102 cm
Habitat: grassland, marshes, ponds
Height: <500 m
Photo: © Luiz Carlos Ramassotti eBird S32344135 Macaulay Library ML 41996681
Jabiru
Jabitu mycteria
Spanish Name: Jabirú
Size: 50 in | 30 cm
Habitat: Ponds, marshes, estuaries
Height: <500 m
Photo: © Luis A. Materon