Shoebill Stork Behavior Facts, Size, Location, Diet + Videos

Shoebill Stork

Shoebill Stork Behavior Facts, Size, Location, Diet + Videos. Book Affordable Luxury Uganda Birding Safaris with JimJam Tours Africa to spot the Shoebill Stork. Located in Africa, the Shoebill Stork (Balaeniceps rex) is an intriguing and unusual bird. Bird lovers and nature observers are particularly interested in the Shoebill because of its unique bill and prehistoric appearance. Here are some essential details regarding this amazing species.

Behavior Facts

• Silent Hunter: Shoebills are known for their stealthy and patient hunting behavior, standing motionless for long periods as they wait for prey.
• Head-shaking Display: During courtship or territorial displays, they may engage in bill clattering, a sound produced by snapping their large beak.
• Loner Lifestyle: They are generally solitary birds, although pairs may bond during breeding.
• Fierce Predators: They can strike with incredible speed to capture prey, thanks to their strong neck muscles and precise aim.

Size

• Height: 110–140 cm (43–55 inches).
• Wingspan: 230–260 cm (7.5–8.5 feet).
• Weight: 4–7 kg (8.8–15.4 lbs).
• Bill Size: The massive shoe-shaped bill can grow up to 24 cm (9.4 inches) long and 20 cm (7.9 inches) wide.

Location

• Found primarily in Central and East Africa, in countries like South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, and Zambia.
• Habitats include swamps, marshes, and wetlands, especially those dominated by papyrus, reeds, and other aquatic vegetation.

Diet

• Shoebills are carnivorous, feeding primarily on:
  • Fish (especially lungfish, tilapia, and catfish).
  • Amphibians (frogs).
  • Reptiles (baby crocodiles and water snakes).
  • Small mammals (rodents occasionally).
• They use a hunting technique called “collapse feeding”, where they lunge forward to snatch prey with their powerful bill.