The marabou stork is a huge, bald-headed stork of Africa. It is a scavenger that has adapted well to life near people, feeding at rubbish dumps and fish markets.
Interesting facts
- Its bald head and neck help keep it clean when feeding on carcasses.
- A pink, inflatable pouch hangs from its throat and is used in displays.
- Hundreds of marabou storks roost and nest in the city of Kampala, Uganda.
- It feeds alongside vultures, often waiting for them to open carcasses.
- It sometimes kills and eats live flamingos and other birds.
- Like many storks, it cools down by excreting onto its legs.
Behaviour
Marabous are often seen standing hunched near water, carcasses or dumps. They soar on thermals and gather in large numbers at food sources.
Breeding and young
Marabous nest in colonies in trees, laying two or three eggs. Both parents incubate the eggs and feed the chicks.
Threats and conservation
The species is common and has benefited from waste around cities.
Where to see it
- Kampala, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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