Black-necked Stork/Jabiru

Image from: John Gould (1804-81) The birds of Australia 1840-48. 7 vols. 600 plates Artists: J. Gould and E. Gould; Lithographer: E. Gould.

Black-necked Stork. Photo: © K and P Rowland

Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus

Description

The Black-necked Stork, or Jabiru, is the only stork found in Australia. Standing at a height of 129 - 137 cm, with black and white body plumage, glossy dark green and purple neck and massive black bill, it is easily distinguished from all other Australian birds. The legs are long and coral-red in colour. The female is distinguished by its yellow eye. Immature birds resemble adults, but the black plumage is replaced by brown and the white plumage is duskier.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is restricted mainly to coastal and near-coastal areas of northern and eastern Australia. Throughout the monsoonal areas of northern Australia, the Black-necked Stork is still widespread, but fewer numbers appear southwards to eastern Australia. In the past the species was found in much of eastern New South Wales, but is now extinct throughout much of this area. The range of the Black-necked Stork has been reduced with the modification of floodplains and tall reedbeds for agriculture, mining and human settlement.

The Black-necked Stork inhabits wetlands, such as floodplains of rivers with large shallow swamps and pools, and deeper permanent bodies of water. Occasionally individuals will stray into open grass, woodland areas or flooded paddocks in search of food.

Outside the breeding season, small family groups may be seen. These groups may be partially nomadic or may stay in the same area.

Food and feeding

The Black-necked Stork feeds on fish, small crustaceans and amphibians. Most prey is caught by the bird jabbing and seizing it with its large bill. Some food is caught by lunging forward with a large stride or by leaping into the air.

Black-necked Stork egg © Australian Museum

Breeding

Pairs bond for several years, perhaps for life. The nest is a large platform of sticks and other vegetation, which is placed in a tall tree in the vicinity of water. Birds are secretive and nest in isolated pairs. Courtship is mostly absent, with the exception of some bowing and clapping of bills. The two to four eggs are white and conical and are incubated by both parents. Both also care for the young.

References

• Pringle, J.D. 1985. The Waterbirds of Australia. Angus and Robertson and the National Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife, Sydney.