Painted Stork
Animal Description

The Painted Stork is a large, striking wading bird found throughout Sri Lanka's wetlands. It's easily recognizable by its predominantly white plumage, accented with black wing markings and distinctive pink tertial feathers, which give it the "painted" appearance. These pink feathers are often more vibrant during the breeding season. The Painted Stork plays a vital role in the wetland ecosystems of Sri Lanka. As a top predator, it helps regulate populations of fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, contributing to the overall health and balance of these vital habitats.

Painted Storks are colonial nesters, often forming large colonies in trees near water. Their presence is a good indicator of a healthy wetland environment. While they are adaptable and can be found in various wetland types, including reservoirs and lagoons, they are particularly dependent on areas with shallow water and abundant food sources.

Threats to the Species:

  • Human Activity:
    • Habitat loss due to wetland drainage for agriculture, urbanization, and aquaculture.
    • Pollution of waterways from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge, affecting their food sources.
    • Disturbance of nesting colonies due to human encroachment.
  • Natural Factors:
    • Fluctuations in water levels, which can impact food availability.
    • Competition with other waterbirds for resources.

Conservation efforts for the Painted Stork in Sri Lanka must focus on the protection and restoration of wetland habitats. This includes controlling pollution, managing water resources sustainably, and minimizing disturbance to nesting colonies. Community education about the importance of wetlands and the role of the Painted Stork is also crucial for their long-term survival.

 

 

Body Anatomy
The Painted Stork is a large bird with a wingspan reaching over a meter. Its most distinctive feature is its long, thick, yellowish or orange bill that is slightly down-curved at the tip. This bill is perfectly adapted for probing in shallow water and mud for prey. The legs are long and pinkish, ideal for wading in shallow water. The toes are webbed, aiding in movement through water and mud.

The plumage is primarily white, providing excellent camouflage in their wetland habitats. The black markings on the wings are prominent, especially in flight. The pink tertial feathers, which give the bird its name, are long and flowy, draping over the back. The head and neck are white, and during the breeding season, the pink color on the tertials becomes more intense. The eyes are relatively small and dark.

The body is streamlined, allowing for efficient movement both in water and air. The wings are long and broad, enabling soaring flight. The tail is short and square. Juvenile birds have a duller plumage and a darker bill compared to adults.
Scientific Name
Mycteria leucocephala
Genus
Mycteria
Animal Category
Bird Size
Large Birds(40 cm to 80 cm)
Bird Height
75-100 cm
Male Female appearance Difference
Same Appearance
Female Appearance
Generally identical to the male
Male Appearance
Generally identical to the female
Residency
Resident Breeder
Endemism
Non Endemic
Conservation Status
Near Threatened
Fledging Period
50-60 Days
Egg Appearance
Oval, slightly elongated
Egg Color
Dull white
Egg Incubation
Both Parents
Incubation Period
25-30 days
Number of Eggs at a time
2-5
Egg Laying Locations
Nests are built in trees, often in colonies with other waterbirds.
Child Bird Food
Regurgitated fish and aquatic invertebrates
Adult Bird Food
Fish, frogs, insects, crustaceans, and small snakes.
Food Type
Carnivorous (Animal-derived)
Food Names
Fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects
Nature of Living Area
Wetlands, marshes, shallow lakes, and paddy fields
Family
Ciconiidae
Order
Ciconiiformes
Class
Aves
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
Domain
Eukaryota
Living Area Categorization
Wetlands, Agricultural Lands
lifespan
28 years

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