Abdims stork

Introduction: Abdim's stork (Ciconia abdimii) was named after the Egyptian governor of the Wadi Halfa area of Sudan, El Arnaut Abdim Bey (1780-1827). They inhabit savannah woodland, pan edges, pastures and grassland. A gregarious species, flocks of hundreds are common, gathering beside water to sunbathe and spread their wings.

Distribution: Mainly central and northern Namibian ranges including Etosha National Park, Kunene River Mouth, Caprivi, Kaudom Game Park. Peak numbers in the country are in January and February.

Diet: Walks slowly to pick termites off the ground. Also eats scorpions, frogs, lizards, mice, water rats, millipedes, young birds, small fish, molluscs and crabs.

Description: Black and white coloured medium-sized stork with long, straight bill.

Breeding: Extralimital.

Size: 80cm.

Weight: 1.5kg.