White Stork

Large, mostly white stork with black flight-feathers and conical red bill. Breeds in open farmland and wetlands, with bulky stick nests conspicuous in trees and often on buildings. In nonbreeding season forages in open areas such as grasslands and agricultural areas. Flies with neck and legs outstretched, and strong, deep wingbeats interspersed with glides. Also soars on thermals; flocks migrate during daytime, often high overhead.

The White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) is a vagrant in Sri Lanka and is not a native or regular species. However, it is a migratory bird that is occasionally sighted in the country, particularly in open wetland and agricultural areas. Sightings are extremely rare and considered a notable event for local birdwatchers.

There is no established diet for the White Stork in Sri Lanka, as it is a rare migrant to the country and not a permanent resident. However, its general opportunistic diet consists of various small animals, and observations from its typical wintering grounds offer insight into its potential food sources while in the region.