White Stork

Owing to its mythological reputation as the bringer of babies, the white stork (Ciconia ciconia) is an extremely popular bird. It also is the national bird of Belarus. The white stork has a stout body, distinctive long neck and slender legs for wading. The iridescent black wing feathers contrast with the bright white plumage of the head, neck and body, and a patch of black skin surrounds the eyes. The bare legs and straight, conical bill possess a strong red colour that is acquired as the bird reaches adulthood. The feathers of the lower neck and upper breast are elongated, forming a ruff that can be extended during courtship displays.