He lays about two white eggs that incubate for about 30 days. To begin, he prepares a 3 by 3 meter area on a floating island with vegetation where he builds a large platform nest about 1 meter in diameter. From this point on, the birds become very territorial and defend their nests against predators.įrom the beginning of nest building until the chicks hatch, the reproductive cycle lasts between 6 and 7 months. Although the breeding season can vary by region, it usually occurs at the beginning of the dry season. Breeding pairs establish territories that can be as large as 1.15 square miles. Then, when they see fit, they strike quickly and violently.īecause of its slow development, the shoebill generally takes longer to reproduce than other birds. Slowly and stealthily, it stalks its prey as it ambushes it. To maximize vision, it is usually observed with its head pointing vertically downward. There is no evidence that this species hunts tactilely, unlike some other large wading birds. It is usually a silent bird, although it sometimes makes noise with its beak. If you are wondering if the shoebill can fly despite its size, the answer is yes, and it has great skills. It is common to see it flying over its territory during the day. When food is plentiful, this bird does not migrate, but may move within its range to nest or optimize feeding.ĭespite its fearsome appearance, the shoebill does not usually attack humans and sometimes even allows them to approach the nest from a distance. To lose heat, this bird frequently flaps its wings to cool itself. Shoebills are also known for their slow movements and tendency to stand still for long periods of time, leading them to be described as "statuesque". Breeding pairs are generally kept at a distance in their territories. Only if food is scarce, several birds may be seen closer together. If you want to know more about other kinds of large birds, don't miss this article on the Rhea bird. The fingers are long, clearly divided, and there is no membrane between them.Its great size has to do with its long legs, which are blackish in color.In most cases, the eyes are large and yellowish, but in some cases they can be grayish-white.In the posterior region of the head there is a ridge on which a smaller tuft appears.The wing feathers are distinguished by a whitish edge and the wings have a lighter coloration.
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