stork

Any of 20 species (family Ciconiidae) of voiceless long-necked, mainly Old World birds. Storks are 2–5 ft (60–150 cm) tall, often with a totally or partially bald brightly coloured head and upper neck. They fly by alternately flapping and soaring, with neck outstretched and legs trailing. Most species are diurnal, feeding on small animals in shallow water and fields; some eat carrion. Although they are usually found in flocks, storks pair off during the breeding season, and both parents incubate the eggs. Typical storks have a straight or nearly straight bill; the four species of wood stork have a curved bill. The only U.S. stork, the wood ibis (Mycteria americana), is white, with black wings and tail and a curved bill. See also ibis; marabou.