Least Concern Birds

African Woollyneck

Ciconia microscelis

Stork with woolly neck feeding on fish near African wetlands.

Scientific name	Ciconia microscelis
Swahili name	Mkorongo wa shingo laini
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Ciconiiformes
Family	Ciconiidae
Size	Male: approximately 1.0-1.2 kg; Female: approximately 0.9-1.1 kg

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How to identify

Neck covered with white downy feathers; body plumage mainly with distinct black and white contrast; long and straight black bill; long gray legs; neck extended straight during flight

Habitat

Wetlands, river edges, sparse woodland savannas, and near farmlands

Diet

Carnivorous, mainly preying on fish, amphibians, insects, and small invertebrates

When it is active

Diurnal, active frequently during the day

Where it lives

Distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Congo Basin; commonly seen in Maasai Mara National Reserve

How to spot it

Observe at wetlands or river edges during early morning or late afternoon; use binoculars from a distance to minimize disturbance

Photography tips

Use soft morning light for photography; capture the typical posture of the neck extended during flight; choose wetland or blue sky backgrounds for best effect