Asian Openbill

Latin Name: 
Anastomus oscitans
Category: 
Size: 
80cm
Description: 

A huge but rather stocky black-and-white waterbird with a long pinkish-grey bill that is permanently open; both mandibles are curved to leave the distinctive ‘nutcracker’ gap. Mostly white in colour with glossy black flight feathers and tail and reddish legs. Non-breeding plumage has a smokygrey wash. Sexes alike.

Habitat: 
Inhabits larger wetlands. Rare on coast.
Distribution: 
Locally common breeding resident throughout lowlands but rare in Pakistan.
Call: 
Call Description: 
Voiceless. Clatters bill at nest.
National Status: