The maguari stork is a large species of stork that inhabits seasonal wetlands over much of South America, and is very similar in appearance to the white stork; albeit slightly larger. It is the only species of its genus to occur in the New World and is one of the only three New World stork species, together with the wood stork and the jabiru.
Region
South America
Typical Environment
Found from Colombia and Venezuela south through Bolivia, Paraguay, and southern Brazil to Uruguay and northern-central Argentina. It frequents seasonally flooded grasslands, marshes, pampas, rice fields, and the fringes of large wetland systems such as the Pantanal and the Llanos. The species tracks receding floodwaters and temporary pools where prey is concentrated. It is largely a lowland bird but occurs locally in higher interior basins where wetlands persist. Human-modified wetlands like pastures and rice paddies are used when water levels are suitable.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The maguari stork is a large South American stork of seasonal wetlands, very similar in appearance to the Eurasian white stork but slightly larger. It is the only member of the genus Ciconia occurring in the New World. Unusually for a stork, it often nests on the ground or in low marsh vegetation rather than high in trees. It follows shifting water levels across vast wetlands and can form loose breeding colonies.
Temperament
wary and moderately social
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, deep wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages singly or in small groups but nests in loose colonies in extensive marshes. Nests are bulky platforms of reeds or sticks placed on the ground or low in marsh vegetation. Both sexes share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Courtship includes bill-clattering displays and mutual preening.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; adults communicate primarily with loud bill-clattering at the nest. They may also give low hisses or grunts at close range, especially during territorial or alarmed interactions.
