The lesser adjutant is a large wading bird in the stork family Ciconiidae. Like other members of its genus, it has a bare neck and head. It is however more closely associated with wetland habitats where it is solitary and is less likely to scavenge than the related greater adjutant. It is a widespread species found from India through Southeast Asia.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Indian Subcontinent through mainland Southeast Asia to the Greater Sunda Islands. It frequents freshwater and brackish wetlands including marshes, floodplains, oxbow lakes, rice paddies, mangroves, and estuaries. Breeding typically takes place near large, undisturbed wetlands with tall trees for nesting. Outside the breeding season it disperses widely to shallow wetlands and drying pools. It avoids dense human settlements but may forage in agricultural landscapes with suitable water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The lesser adjutant is a large stork with a bare head and neck, adapted to hot wetland environments. Unlike its close relative the greater adjutant, it scavenges less and forages more in natural wetlands. It nests in tall trees, often near floodplains or mangroves, building massive stick platforms. Habitat loss, drainage of wetlands, and disturbance have driven significant declines across much of its range.
In Sri Lanka
Temperament
solitary and wary
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, deep wingbeats; flies with neck retracted and legs trailing
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in small groups while feeding, but may roost communally. Breeds singly or in small colonies, placing large stick nests high in tall trees near wetlands. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Largely silent away from nests. At colonies it produces bill-clattering and low grunts or croaks during displays and interactions.
