By Josie April 14th, 2023
The Shoebill Stork is a powerful bird that's able to attack prey much larger than themselves and are often seen eating crocodiles!
The shoebill stork is a large, distinctive bird native to the tropical wetlands of East Africa.
They can reach up to 5 feet tall and have broad wings with white and black feathers.
Its most striking feature is its long, curved bill that resembles a shoe or boot – hence its name.
The shoebill stork leads a solitary existence and fiercely defends its territory, especially when safeguarding its nest.
Shoebill storks hunt for fish and other small creatures in shallow waters
It also pursues more significant prey, such as monitor lizards, snakes, and juvenile crocodiles.
Their strategy involves stealthily stalking their prey until they are close enough to strike with their sharp beaks.
The shoebill stork's neck muscles are incredibly strong, allowing it to tear apart large prey items like crocodiles easily.
The shoebill stork is considered vulnerable due to habitat reduction.
This is mostly caused by deforestation, agricultural expansion, mining activities, and water pollution.