Maguari Stork

Identification

The Maguari Stork is a large wading bird standing 97 to 120 cm tall with a wingspan of 155 to 180 cm, making it similar in size to the white stork. Males average 4.2 kg while females average 3.8 kg. Much of the adult plumage is white with striking black flight feathers and a forked black tail—a feature that clearly distinguishes it from the white stork. The forked tail is shorter than the stiff white under-tail coverts, which protrude beneath it and are easily visible in flight from the ground.

The bill is straight and bluish grey, lined with red, with the final third dark maroon. The iris is lemon-yellow or cream white, and the legs are purplish red. During the breeding season, individuals develop brighter plumage and long semi-plumes up to 18 cm on the head and neck that become erectile during courtship and aggressive displays. The throat and lores are orangey red, deepening during breeding season. Juveniles are distinctly darker than adults, with dark grey downy plumage rather than white, making them easily recognizable as a separate age class.

Range & Habitat

The Maguari Stork is the only Ciconia stork species found in the New World and one of only three stork species occurring in South America, alongside the wood stork and jabiru. It inhabits seasonal wetlands across much of the continent, where it may occur in sympatry with both of these species in parts of its range. The bird was first documented in the scientific record through Georg Marcgrave's descriptions and illustrations from Brazil in 1648.

Behaviour & Diet

The Maguari Stork is an impressive flyer, soaring at least a hundred metres above the ground with outstretched neck and extended legs, interspersing wing beats at a rate of 181 beats per minute with long glides. It requires three long jumps before taking off from the ground. The species strongly resembles both the white stork and Oriental stork in behaviour, including a characteristic up-down greeting display used in courtship and social interactions. Head and neck feathers with their distinctive structure play an important role in courtship and aggressive displays.

Best Time & Places to See It

The Maguari Stork is best found in seasonal wetland habitats throughout South America. The breeding season is when plumage is brightest and behaviour most active, making it an excellent time for observation. Look for birds soaring high above wetland areas, where their white plumage and distinctive flight silhouette make them visible from considerable distances.

Photography Tips

Photograph this stork in flight to capture its impressive soaring behaviour and distinctive forked tail with protruding white under-tail coverts—features that distinguish it from other large white storks. The contrast between white plumage and black flight feathers and tail provides excellent photographic opportunity. During breeding season, capture the erected semi-plumes on the head and neck during displays, and note the colour changes in the throat and lores. Wide-angle lenses work well for capturing birds in their wetland habitat and soaring overhead.