Shoebill

The shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) is a large African wading bird distinguished by its massive shoe-shaped bill, broad wings, and slow, deliberate movements.

Balaenicipitidae: Balaenicipitidae is the family of birds containing the shoebill as its sole living species. The shoebill is the family’s only living member.
Ambush predator: An ambush predator captures prey by waiting concealed or motionless before striking suddenly. The shoebill often waits almost motionless before making a rapid bill strike.
Shoebill conservation: Shoebill conservation comprises efforts to protect the species and its wetland habitats. Drainage, disturbance, and habitat conversion threaten the wetlands shoebills need.
Bangweulu Wetlands: The Bangweulu Wetlands are a large wetland complex in northeastern Zambia. They are one of the best-known places to observe shoebills in the wild.
Pelecaniformes: Pelecaniformes is an order of waterbirds that includes pelicans, herons, ibises, and the shoebill. Modern classifications place the shoebill among these waterbirds.
Lungfish: Lungfish are freshwater fishes that can breathe air and survive periods of low water or drought. Lungfish are major prey in the shoebill’s swamp habitats.
Wetland conservation: Wetland conservation protects wetland ecosystems, their species, and the services they provide. Protecting intact swamps also preserves shoebill feeding and nesting grounds.
Sudd: The Sudd is a vast swamp in South Sudan formed by the White Nile and its tributaries. Its extensive marshes support an important shoebill population.
Papyrus swamp: A papyrus swamp is a wetland dominated by dense stands of papyrus plants. Papyrus swamps are among the shoebill’s characteristic habitats.
Catfish: Catfish are ray-finned fishes characterized by barbels around the mouth in many species. Catfish are among the fishes taken by shoebills.

Linked from 1 page

Chambeshi RiverBroader topic: The Bangweulu wetlands connected to the river are a major shoebill habitat.