Vulnerable

A large stork measuring 90–115 cm in length with a wingspan of 180–230 cm. Adults have dark grey to black upperparts, pale grey underparts, a bald head and neck, and a long, thick yellowish bill. Juveniles are browner with feathered heads.

Resident across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

Non-migratory, but may undertake local dispersal in response to wetland conditions or food availability.

Breeds mainly during the dry season to early wet season, timing varies regionally. Nests are large stick platforms built in tall trees near wetlands. Clutch size is usually 2–3 eggs.

Prefers wetlands, marshes, rivers, and paddy fields with tall trees for nesting. Often nests colonially in isolated trees.

Found in freshwater wetlands, marshes, rivers, paddy fields, and floodplains. Avoids deep forests. Often forages solitarily or in small groups.

Opportunistic carnivore—feeds on fish, frogs, small reptiles, crustaceans, and carrion. Forages by wading in shallow water or along riverbanks.