What does the Painted Stork eat?

The Painted Stork's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily fish, amphibians, reptiles, and large insects)

How it forages

Forages in shallow water, often using a unique 'grope-feeding' technique. It wades with its bill partially open and submerged, sweeping it from side to side to detect prey by touch. Once prey is detected, the bill snaps shut. Diet consists mainly of fish (up to 60 cm long), frogs, snakes, and large insects.

When it feeds

Diurnal, actively foraging during daylight hours.

Explore the Painted Stork