Philadelphia Zoo - Wading Birds

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Wading Birds

Birds in the orders Ciconiiformes and Charadriformes are often referred to as "waders". These long-legged birds are commonly found in wetlands, on shorelines and in other shallow waters.

Caribbean flamingo

Also called the American flamingo, this species is the most brightly colored and largest of all flamingos. They are a scarlet pink color overall and have black primary feathers.

Saddle-billed stork

You may see the storks running across their exhibit while flapping their wings. Often called a “flap-dash” display it is thought to be part of pair bonding.

Hammerkop

The distinctive shape of this small wading bird’s head gave rise to its name, meaning “hammer head” in Africaans.

Waldrapp ibis

The waldrapp ibis, also known as the hermit ibis or the northern bald ibis, may not be the most attractive bird, but their strong character and bizarre appearance give them unique appeal.