Black Stork

The Black Stork is a large, long-legged waterbird with mostly glossy black plumage, sharply contrasting white underparts, and a long pointed bill. Adult legs and bill are bright red, making the species striking at close range. It averages roughly 95–100 centimetres from bill tip to tail and spans about 145–155 centimetres across the wings. Young birds are duller, with less vivid bare parts. Unlike the more familiar White Stork, it is generally a shy bird of secluded landscapes. (Wikipedia, general species account)

Black Storks breed in scattered, quiet forested areas near rivers, marshes and other wetlands, nesting away from heavy human disturbance. They forage in shallow water for fish and other small aquatic animals. The species is a long-distance migrant across much of its range. Breeding extends from parts of Europe eastward across the Palearctic to the Pacific, while European populations chiefly winter in tropical sub-Saharan Africa and Asian populations travel toward the Indian subcontinent. Migrants often use rising air to soar efficiently. (Wikipedia, general species account)