Balaeniceps rex
The Shoebill is a striking, large, wading bird with a distinctive shoe-shaped bill. Its plumage is predominantly blue-grey, with a slightly darker back and wings. The massive bill is greyish in colour and can reach up to 24 cm in length.
Both sexes look similar, with males being larger and have longer bills. There are no significant seasonal changes in plumage. Juveniles have a smaller bill and duller colouration compared to adults, gradually developing adult features over several years.
Length
110cm to 140cm
Wingspan
230cm to 260cm
Weight
4kg to 7kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Blue
Secondary Colour
White
Beak Colour
Grey Orange
Leg Colour
Black
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Shoebills inhabit large swamps, marshes, and wetlands in tropical central Africa. Their range extends from South Sudan to Zambia, with significant populations in Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
These birds are non-migratory but may make local movements in response to water levels and food availability. They prefer areas with dense papyrus and reed beds, often near open water.
Up to 1,000 meters
Tropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Shoebill. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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