African Openbill

Anastomus lamelligerus

The African Openbill is a distinctive stork species found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its unique bill, which has a gap between the mandibles that is used to feed on aquatic snails and mollusks. This medium-sized stork has a predominantly white plumage with black flight feathers and tail. Its long legs are dark grey, and it has a red eye and bare facial skin. African Openbills are commonly found in wetland habitats such as marshes, floodplains, and rivers where they forage for food. They are known for their distinctive bill-clattering calls during flight and while perched. The conservation status of the African Openbill is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, floodplains, rivers