Asian Woolly-necked Stork

The Asian woolly-necked stork (Ciconia episcopus), also known as the Asian woollyneck, is a species of stork commonly found in the wetlands, marshes, and rice fields across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of Indonesia. It is characterized by its distinctive white neck, contrasting with its dark body, and iridescent black wings. It stands approximately 85-90 cm tall, with a wingspan ranging from 150-165 cm. A unique feature is a narrow band of bright, unfeathered orange skin along the underside of the forearm, visible when the wings are opened​​.

The Asian woolly-necked stork was formerly considered conspecific with the African woolly-necked stork (Ciconia microscelis), but was recently recognized as a distinct species due to its allopatric range and significant plumage and morphological differences. The Asian species is characterized by a larger black cap on the head, which has a clean edge, compared to the diffused or jagged edges of the black cap in the African species.

The Asian woolly-necked stork inhabits a variety of wetland habitats, including freshwater marshes, riversides, flooded fields, and mangroves. It is also known to frequent agricultural areas where it finds ample food supply. The diet of this stork is diverse, consisting of fish, amphibians, insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals. It employs a foraging technique that involves slow wading through shallow waters, using its long bill to probe and capture prey.

Breeding season for the Asian woolly-necked stork generally occurs during the monsoon season, which varies by region but typically spans from June to September. They are monogamous birds, forming long-term pair bonds. The nest is a large platform of sticks, often built high in trees near water bodies. Both parents participate in nest building, incubation, and feeding the young. The female typically lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 30-31 days. After hatching, the chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge approximately 60-70 days later. This species has been observed engaging in cooperative breeding behaviors, where non-breeding individuals help care for the young.

The Asian woolly-necked stork is currently listed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List. The primary threats to this species are habitat loss due to wetland drainage, deforestation, and the expansion of agricultural activities. Additionally, pollution and the use of pesticides in agriculture adversely affect their food sources. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat preservation and restoration, as well as mitigating human-wildlife conflict.