A large stork native to South and Southeast Asia, instantly recognizable for its bald head, long bill, and tall, stilt-like legs. Unlike many storks with elegant white plumage, the Lesser adjutant has a darker, more rugged look. Its body is mostly black with a pale belly, and its head and neck are bare with a yellowish skin tone, giving it a somewhat scruffy appearance. This baldness, however, isn’t a flaw—it’s an adaptation for hygiene. Since these storks often feed on carrion and fish, having bare skin keeps them from getting fouled feathers while foraging in muddy wetlands or picking at carcasses.
What makes the Lesser adjutant distinct from its relatives, like the Greater adjutant, is its more subtle appearance and slightly smaller size. While the Greater adjutant has an unmistakable pouch hanging from its neck and a bulkier build, the Lesser adjutant is slimmer, quieter, and less conspicuous. It prefers wetlands, mangroves, and floodplains, where it feeds on a varied diet of fish, frogs, crustaceans, snakes, small mammals, and carrion. This flexible diet allows it to survive in various habitats, from coastal mudflats to inland marshes. Unlike some storks that feed in large, noisy flocks, Lesser adjutants are often solitary or in small groups, stalking silently through shallow water with long bills poised for a quick strike.
Another characteristic that sets the Lesser adjutant apart is its role as both a scavenger and a hunter. Many storks specialize primarily in live prey, while vultures focus on carrion, but this bird does both. Its bald head and strong bill make it well-suited to scavenge alongside vultures, while its keen eyesight and patient stalking make it just as effective at catching live fish.
Distribution
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Brunei
Cambodia
China
India
Indonesia
Laos
Malaysia
Myanmar
Nepal
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Thailand
VietnamAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
