Description
The African openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus) is a distinctive stork species native to large portions of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. It is characterized by its unique bill, which has a gap when closed, adapted for feeding on mollusks, particularly snails. It cannot be confused with any other species. This is a relatively large stork, with an average height of 80-94 cm (2.6-3.0 ft) and a wingspan of 150-165 cm (4.9-5.4 ft). The plumage is typically dark all over. Its bill is light tan to light grey, often getting darker towards the end. Its legs are long and greyish.
There are two species of open-billed storks, with the other being the Asian openbill (Anastomus oscitans). The African species has an all-dark plumage and slightly larger size, whereas the Asian species is predominantly white to light grey in color. As the two species live on separate continents, they are never confused in the wild.
Diet & Habitat
The African openbill is typically found in wetlands, including shallow lakes, marshes, and floodplains. It thrives in areas with abundant water sources, which are essential for its mollusk-based diet. This bird feeds mainly on aquatic snails and mussels, using its uniquely adapted bill to extract them efficiently from their shells. The gap in the bill is used to grip and manipulate the hard shells of its prey.
Nesting
Breeding season varies by region but generally occurs during or just after the rainy season, to coincide with the abundance of its snail prey. African openbills are colonial nesters, often forming large breeding colonies. They build large, platform-like nests in trees near water bodies. The female typically lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated by both parents over a period of about 25-30 days. Chicks are altricial (born in a relatively undeveloped state) and depend on their parents for food and protection. They fledge approximately 50-55 days after hatching.
Status
The African openbill benefits from a wide distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, which helps mitigate risks from habitat loss and other potential threats. However, like many water-dependent species, it remains vulnerable to changes in wetland ecosystems, whether due to human activity or climate change. It is listed as least concern on IUCN Red list.
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