The shoebill stork (Balaeniceps rex) is a large wading bird native to parts of East Africa. It is known for its distinctive shoe-shaped bill, which is large and flat and appears almost comical. The Shoebill is a solitary bird and is found in wetland habitats such as swamps, marshes, and floodplains. It feeds mainly on fish but also eats other small animals such as snakes, lizards, and rodents.
The Shoebill is a large bird, with adults reaching up to 4.5 feet in height and weighing up to 9 pounds. It has a wingspan of up to 8.5 feet. The shoebill is mostly grey in color, with a white belly and a large, black bill. It has long, thin legs that are well-suited for wading through shallow water.
The shoebill is considered a vulnerable species, with a population estimated at between 5,000 and 8,000 individuals. It is threatened by habitat destruction and degradation, as well as the conversion of wetlands to agriculture. The shoebill is also at risk from hunting and poaching. It is protected by national and international laws and is listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species.
