Shoebill

The Shoebill lives only in extensive papyrus swamps in the interior of central Africa, occurring locally from s. Sudan to n. Zambia. The Shoebill is a very large bird. This species was only classified in the 19th century when some skins were brought to Europe. It was not until years later that live specimens reached the scientific community. However, the bird was known to both ancient Egyptians and Arabs.

Shoebills feed in muddy waters, preying on fish, frogs,smaller birds, reptiles such as baby crocodiles, invertebrates and small mammals. They nest on the ground and lay 2 eggs. The population is estimated at between 5,000 and 8,000 individuals, the majority of which live in Sudan.