ID Keys: Very large size, very large broad bill, black head, reddish
neck, white body
Jabiru,
a species of stork, are among the largest birds in the Americas, with large
males standing as tall as 5 feet and weighing over 20 pounds. They are
birds of the tropical Americas, and are most common in South America, with
smaller populations in central America and southern Mexico. Stray
Jabiru have been found in the U.S. on a handful of occasions in south Texas,
but one bird was found as far north as Oklahoma. Jabiru is name that
has also been applied to a pair of other species that live in the Eastern
Hemisphere, but they are more properly titled the "Asian Black-necked Stork"
(called Jabiru in Australia), and the "Saddle-billed Stork" of Africa.
Habitat
Can be found in a variety of tropical
habitats, near rivers and lakes.
Diet
Jabiru eat a variety of animals, including
large numbers of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and amphibians. They
will also eat reptiles, small mammals, small birds, eggs, and carrion.
Opportunistic feeders, with groups of birds often showing up in areas with
feeding opportunities, such as drying pools with fish during dry spells.
Behavior
While never appearing in huge numbers,
Jabiru can be relatively social, with several birds or small flocks feeding
in the same location. Feeding behavior depends upon locality and the
type of prey that are available.
Nesting
Jabiru build very large nests, up to 4
feet wide and 6 feet deep. The nests are constructed of sticks and
branches, and are made by the male and female. They typically do
not nest in large colonies, but several nests may be in close proximity.
They are thought to mate for life, and are very protective parents, with
adults taking care of young for 6 months or more after hatching.
Song
Jabiru are typically silent, although
occasionally a low whistle may be heard.
Generally unmistakeable. Structure similar to other stork species that
has reached the U.S., the Wood Stork.
Conservation Status
The species was once listed
as "threatened" by the IUCN, but as of 1988, is now considered a species of
"least concern". They are not common in most areas, but they are
widespread, and received protected status in several South American
countries.
