Balaenicipitidae | bird family | Britannica (original) (raw)

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characteristics and importance

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  In shoebill
  …species that constitutes the family Balaenicipitidae (order Balaenicipitiformes, Ciconiiformes, or Pelecaniformes). The species is named for its clog-shaped bill, which is an adaptation for catching and holding the large, slippery lungfish, its favourite food. This big bird also eats turtles, fish, and young crocodiles. Shoebills stand
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classification

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  In ciconiiform: Annotated classification
  Family Balaenicipitidae (shoebill or whale-headed stork)A large wading bird, stoutly built, with moderately long neck and short tail. Bill large, broad, and flattened, with hooked tip on upper mandible. Legs long, hind toe on same level as others, claw on middle toe slightly pectinate. Plumage…
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