open nutcracker-like bill; glossy black plumage (Zoo; 2008-10-21)


African Openbill
Anastomus lamelligerus

Native Range: Africa

Notes: this small stork has a peculiar gape between the lower and upper mandible of bill that gives this species its name; inhabits freshwater lakes and reservoirs; eats mostly snails and mussels; no sexual dimorphism.

bill is also rather pale and horn-like (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
long dask legs with spreading toes (Zoo; 2008-10-21)

glossyness depends on lighting conditions (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
showing the open bill (Zoo; 2008-10-21)

some lighter streaks or spots on neck and shoulder (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
posing for a head portrait (Zoo; 2008-10-21)