European white stork in exhibit

European White Stork

Scientific Name
Ciconia ciconia
Class
Aves
Order
Ciconiiformes
Range
Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia
Habitat
Wetlands, savannas, meadows, and fields
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
European white stork in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern

More Information

Large birds, European white storks can reach up to 40 inches in height and have a wingspan measuring up to eight feet across. Their white body feathers are offset by black wing feathers. Long, thin legs enable them to wade easily through shallow water, where they hunt insects, frogs, rodents, lizards, snakes, and small birds. They often live and nest near humans, favoring tall trees, chimneys, and rooftops as nesting sites.

Did You Know?

European white storks use their long, pointed bill to spear prey.

They are monogamous, meaning breeding pairs mate for life.

These birds return to the same nest every year, with the male arriving a few days before the female to repair and enlarge the structure.

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Species Survival Plan®

We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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