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Maribou Stork
Paignton Zoo is home to two marabou storks who live next to the lake opposite our Island Restaurant. Also known as the "undertaker bird", don't let their solemn appearance deceive you... They can be quite feisty, so keep those fingers clear of their net!
Class:
Aves
Order:
Ciconiiformes
Family:
Ciconiidae
About the marabou stork
The marabou stork is one of Africa’s largest wading birds, reaching up to 150 centimetres in height. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa, it inhabits wetlands, riverbanks, lakeshores, and even urban edges. Its bare pink head, massive bill, and dark body make it unmistakable.
A scavenger and opportunistic carnivore, the marabou feeds on carrion, fish, amphibians, and small animals, playing an important ecological role in waste removal.
Conservation
The species is classified as Least Concern, although wetland degradation and disturbance across parts of sub-Saharan Africa can impact local populations.