White Stork

Ciconia ciconia

Rare migrant from Southern Europe with about 40 per year in Britain with 50 records for Ireland most May-Oct.

Breeds in France, Spain, Germany, Iberia, Poland, Portugal & Southern Africa.

Winters in South Africa.

Adults are mainly black & white, apart from the red bill & legs.

In flight, White storks fly with their necks outstretched.

Juveniles are similar to that of the adult, though its black feathers are often tinged with brown, and its beak and legs are a duller brownish-red or orange.

The beak is typically orange or red with a darker tip.

The call is a fimilar bill clapping display at the nest, heard during the early Spring.