Animals and Plants · Storks

Black Stork

Another important measurement to mention is the bill length, which can reach up to 20 centimetres. It should be noted that males are larger and heavier than females.

Redaktion Afriwhere 2 min read updated 6 September 2026
Black Stork
Black Stork

Appearance

Another important measurement that should be mentioned is the bill length, which can be up to 20 centimeters. It should be noted that the males are larger and heavier than the females. Other characteristics of the Black Stork are its dark plumage that shimmers with green and purple. However, only the upper side of the wings, the back, and the head are dark; the chest and the underside of the wings are predominantly white. Furthermore, the dark red color of the beak and the orange color of the legs give the stork its characteristic appearance.

Where to find the Black Stork

Above all, the Black Stork can be found in forests and areas near forests. Additionally, the birds inhabit flowing waters, ponds, and marshes, as they can find a large food supply here. In Africa, the southern regions and the countries south of the Sahara are particularly suitable. However, the stork can also be found in the border area between the coast in the north and the Sahara Desert. The animals have fixed territories that can extend over an area of 100 hectares. However, as their habitat is becoming smaller and smaller due to human expansion, the birds have to look for new breeding sites. In recent years, they have therefore been increasingly found in lightly wooded areas or, in individual cases, even in field copses. For the breeding season, the animals build large nests that can reach a diameter of up to 2 meters. Both parents are responsible for raising the young, and they remain together even after the breeding season.

Advertisement

 

Advertisement

One country a month

One country, one national park, one animal — Africa in a single mail, told close and brief.

Subscribe to the newsletter