Black Stork

🔍 Overview

Rare vagrant. An elegant and elusive relative of the White Stork, Black Storks are rare spring and summer vagrants in Sussex, typically seen during continental drift migration.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Large (95–100 cm tall)

Plumage: Glossy black with a green-purple sheen; white belly

Bill & Legs: Red

Flight: Soars with neck outstretched, broad wings

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Vagrant in Sussex, most often seen in coastal areas, South Downs, and wetlands like Pulborough Brooks during April–September.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Generally silent. Solitary or in small groups when migrating.

📸 Birding Tip

Look for lone soaring storks with black-and-white underwings during migration periods.