Ciconiiformes – Storks & allies
Storks swallow their prey whole and any vegetation consumed is by accident
Members of this order are typically long-legged and long-necked, enabling them to wade through water and find their prey. They are incredibly graceful in their movement and have unusual powers of flight. Some storks can stand 1.2m (4 ft) tall and have an 2.4m (8 ft) wingspan!
Storks are found in large parts of the world but are absent from the poles, most of North America and Australia. They enjoy warmer climates, and those living in temperate zones tend to migrate to warmer climes over winter with their migratory routes passing over land. Most of them can be found near freshwater habitats.
These birds often live in colonies, and lucky for them – human interaction with these birds is low.
Families in this order
Storks swallow their prey whole and any vegetation consumed is by accident