File:Three marabou storks walking in shallow water - DPLA - 03ca91b39a1ca55dd9d7a3b32021e511.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Ciconiiformes; Family: Ciconiidae; Genus: Leptoptilos; Genus species: Leptoptilos crumeniferus. Animal characteristics: Height: 1.5 m; Identification: The marabou stork has a naked pink head and neck, a long dangling throat sac, black and white plumage, and a white ruff at the base of the neck; Habitat: Savannas, plains, marshes; Diet: Carnivore: carrion, termites, snakes, flamingos, baby crocodiles; Reproduction: Marabou storks nest in trees during the dry season. Both sexes incubate their 305 eggs for a total of 30-50 days. The chicks stay with their parents for four months after fledging; Social Structure: The marabou stork is fairly social and colonial during the breeding season. It feeds in flocks, often with other species such as vultures; Behavior: Marabou storks defecate on their legs and feet to help regulate body temperature. Their throat sac is air-filled and used for courtship or breathing; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: This is the only stork species that eats carrion.