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Wood Stork
Mycteria americana
28.0899, -82.524
Field Notes
Description:
Large wading bird, about 4 feet tall. Bald black head with sturdy long beak curved slightly downward. When wings are spread, bottom half of wings reveals black feathers. This is the only native stork that breeds in the U.S. It's endangered here, although populations throughout Central and South America are thriving.
Habitat:
Freshwater ponds and drainage ditches. In the U.S., found along the Gulf Coast, as well as up through Georgia and the Carolinas. Feeds mainly on small fish. About 8000 breeding pairs are believed to exist in the U.S.
Notes:
Although endangered, these birds are locally common throughout Florida. I see them in my backyard throughout the year, although in larger numbers in the winter dry season.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedSeptember 30, 2011
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