#openbill

photographs by Suzan Johnston

the asian openbill is a large stork found primarily in southeast asia. they are named for the notable gap between mandibles in adults; the mandibles are ridged and assist the birds in opening the shells of snails, their primary food source. juveniles lack this gap. these birds are typically social and often found gathering in noisy flocks. during the off season season, they are gray; in the breeding season, they are while, with shiny iridescent black wing markings & tail feathers.

Thai native.

photograph by Shantanu Kuveskar