Asian Openbill
Animal Description

The Asian Openbill is a distinctive stork found in Sri Lanka's wetlands. Its most recognizable feature is its large, curved bill with a noticeable gap (or "open bill") when closed, hence its name. This specialized bill is perfectly adapted for its primary diet of freshwater snails. Asian Openbills play a crucial role in controlling snail populations, which can be agricultural pests and vectors for certain diseases. They're often seen wading in shallow water, foraging for snails. They are colonial nesters, often forming large colonies in trees near water sources. Their presence indicates a healthy wetland ecosystem.

Threats to the Species:

  • Human Activity:
    • Habitat loss due to wetland drainage for agriculture, urbanization, and aquaculture.
    • Pollution of waterways, affecting snail populations (their primary food source).
    • Use of pesticides, which can directly harm the birds or contaminate their prey.
  • Natural Factors:
    • Changes in water levels, impacting snail availability.
    • Competition with other waterbirds.

Conservation efforts for the Asian Openbill in Sri Lanka need to focus on wetland protection and restoration, pollution control, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices that minimize pesticide use. Community awareness about the importance of these birds and their role in the ecosystem is also vital.

Body Anatomy
The Asian Openbill is a medium to large-sized bird with a predominantly white plumage. The wings are dark, with a black or dark grey coloration, creating a striking contrast against the white body. The most distinctive feature is the large, heavy, curved bill. The lower mandible has a distinct upward curve near the tip, creating the characteristic "open bill" appearance when the bill is closed. This gap allows the bird to efficiently crack open snail shells.

The legs are long and greyish, ideal for wading in shallow water. The toes are webbed, aiding in movement through water and mud. The neck is long and often held in an "S" shape. The head is white, and the eyes are dark. During the breeding season, some individuals may develop a slightly yellowish or orange tinge to their plumage. Juvenile birds have a duller plumage and a less pronounced gap in their bill compared to adults.
Scientific Name
Anastomus oscitans
Genus
Anastomus
Sinhala Name
ආසියා විවරතුඩුවා
Animal Category
Bird Size
Medium Birds(20cm to 40cm)
Bird Height
68 cm
Male Female appearance Difference
Same Appearance
Female Appearance
Similar to male; predominantly greyish or white with glossy black wings and tail.
Male Appearance
Similar to female; predominantly greyish or white with glossy black wings and tail.
Residency
Resident Breeder
Endemism
Non Endemic
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Fledging Period
50-60 days
Egg Appearance
Oval
Egg Color
Dull white
Egg Incubation
Both Parents
Incubation Period
25-30 days
Number of Eggs at a time
2-4
Egg Laying Locations
Trees near water bodies, in colonies.
Child Bird Food
Regurgitated snails and other food brought by the parents.
Adult Bird Food
Primarily freshwater snails. Occasionally takes other aquatic invertebrates.
Food Type
Carnivorous (Animal-derived)
Food Names
Primarily freshwater snails (e.g., Pila species).
Nature of Living Area
Wetlands, marshes, lakes, and other bodies of water, particularly those with abundant snail populations
Family
Ciconiidae
Order
Ciconiiformes
Class
Aves
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
Domain
Eukaryota
Living Area Categorization
Wetlands, Agricultural Lands
lifespan
20-30 years

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