Bird · GBIF taxon 5229410
Asian Openbill
Anastomus oscitansAlso known as Asian Openbill Stork, Openbill Stork
Asian openbills are medium-sized storks famous for the distinct gap between their curved mandibles, an evolutionary tool that lets adults grip slippery apple snails with precision. Their dull greyish-white plumage is offset by glossy black wings, short black tails, and pale pinkish legs suited for wading through shallow waters. During the breeding season, thousands gather in loud colonial heronries built atop partially submerged trees across tropical wetlands and rice paddies.
Wading BirdWetlandSocial
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Apple snails
- Freshwater mussels
- Crabs
Predators
- Eagles
- Monitor lizards
- Pythons
ThreatsWetland drainage, pesticide accumulation, and tree clearing at colony sites
HabitatsFreshwater marshes, flooded rice paddies, lakes, and river banks
Life span10–18 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCiconiidae
- SpeciesAnastomus oscitans
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Paddy field viewing: Scan shallow flooded agricultural fields and wetlands during early morning hours.
- Keep distance near colonies: Maintain a respectful distance from nesting trees to avoid disturbing breeding pairs.
- Listen for clattering: Listen for distinctive bill-clattering communication around roosting and nesting sites.
Frequent Companion Wetland Neighbor Primary Prey Close Relative
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