Least Concern

A large, elegant stork measuring 100–115 cm in length with a wingspan of 155–215 cm. It has white plumage with black flight feathers, long red legs, and a long pointed red bill.

Migratory species — breeds in Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia, then migrates southwards.

Winters in sub-Saharan Africa, parts of India, and the Middle East. Some individuals are seen in western and northern India during migration or winter.

Breeds from April to July in temperate zones. Nests are large stick platforms built on trees, rooftops, cliffs, or utility poles, often reused annually.

Open farmlands, meadows, and wetlands near human settlements; prefers areas with access to shallow water bodies for feeding.

Found in open wetlands, grasslands, agricultural fields, and marshes. Often seen near rivers and floodplains, and occasionally in villages and towns during migration.

Feeds mainly on insects, frogs, fish, reptiles, small mammals, and sometimes young birds. Forages by walking slowly through shallow water or grasslands, seizing prey with its bill.