At a Glance

This huge tropical stork is found mainly in South America. It is an uncommon breeder in southern Mexico, but wanderers have strayed as far north as Texas a few times, and one has reached Oklahoma. Occurrences north of the border have been in late summer or fall.
Category
Long-legged Waders, Storks
IUCN Status
Least Concern
Habitat
Freshwater Wetlands, Saltwater Wetlands
Region
Plains, Texas
Behavior
Direct Flight, Soaring

Range & Identification

Description

51-60" (129-153 cm). A huge stork with a massive, slightly upturned bill. Body and wings all white; head, neck, and bill are black, with a red throat pouch. Juvenile is duller, marked with dingy brown, but recognized by bill shape and huge size.
Size
About the size of a Heron
Color
Black, Brown, Red, White
Wing Shape
Broad, Long, Rounded
Tail Shape
Short

Songs and Calls

Normally silent.

Climate Vulnerability

Conservation Status