Greater Adjutant

The greater adjutant (Leptoptilos dubius) is a member of the stork family, Ciconiidae, and is a colossal bird, ranking among the largest extant storks. It stands at an impressive height of 145–150 cm (4 ft 9 in – 4 ft 11 in) and boasts a wingspan of approximately 250 cm (8 ft 2 in). This species is characterized by a massive wedge-shaped bill, a bare head, and a distinctive neck pouch, which becomes brightly colored during the breeding season.

Identification Tips

Adult greater adjutants have a dark wing that contrasts with light grey secondary coverts, and the underside of the body is whitish. The sexes appear similar and are indistinguishable in the field. Juveniles are a duller version of the adult. The species can be identified by its large size, the pendant inflatable pouch on the neck, and its "military" gait when walking on the ground.

Habitat

Greater adjutants are typically found in shallow lakes, drying lake beds, and garbage dumps. They are often seen in the company of kites and vultures.

Distribution

Once widespread across southern Asia, the greater adjutant's range has significantly contracted. Today, it is restricted to a few breeding populations in India, with the largest colony in Assam, and another in Cambodia. After the breeding season, they disperse widely across the Gangetic Plains.

Behaviour

The greater adjutant is usually seen alone or in small groups, often remaining motionless for extended periods. It soars on thermals using its large wings and may hold its wings outstretched, possibly for thermoregulation.

Song & Calls

Lacking intrinsic muscles in the syrinx, the greater adjutant is not a vocal bird. It primarily communicates through bill-clattering displays, which are distinct from those of the closely related African marabou stork.

Breeding

The greater adjutant breeds in winter, forming colonies that may include other large waterbirds. The nest is a large platform of twigs placed on tall trees. Both parents incubate the eggs, which hatch at intervals, and the chicks are fed at the nest for about five months.

Similar Species

The lesser adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus) is the only possible confusable species in the region, but it lacks a pouch, prefers wetland habitats, and has a lighter grey skull cap.

Diet and Feeding

An opportunistic feeder, the greater adjutant is omnivorous, scavenging on carrion and offal, but also preying on vertebrates such as frogs, large insects, and occasionally birds, reptiles, and rodents.

Conservation status

The greater adjutant is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The total population was estimated at around a thousand individuals in 2008, with habitat loss, pollution, and disturbances contributing to its decline. Conservation efforts include breeding in captivity and reducing fatalities among young birds in natural nesting sites.