Identification:
Large size, 69-74 cm in length. Long neck, gray head. White thighs and undertail coverts. Round, white tail with a black terminal band. Upper back and wing coverts are grayish-brown; the breast is rufous-brown. In flight, the wings are broad and rounded, with white at the base of the tail contrasting with the dark gray of the wings. Juveniles have brown heads, necks, chests, and upper bellies with numerous brown vertical streaks; the tail has two brown and white bands.
Biology and Ecology:
Breeds from November to March. Nests are built in tall, large trees, resembling deep, large cups. Nests are located 7.5-30 meters above the ground. Lays 2-4 white eggs. Commonly found in lakes, swamps, and large rivers. Distributed at elevations up to 1,500 meters. Often soars and maintains balance in the air.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Lai Châu, Thanh Hóa, Hà Tĩnh, Nghệ An, Thừa Thiên – Huế, Kon Tum, Đắk Lắk, Đồng Nai, Kiên Giang.
- Worldwide: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Philippines (Sulawesi), Philippines, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos.
Value:
Of scientific value.
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable due to a declining distribution range and small population size.
Classification:
VU B2a C1.
Conservation Measures:
Measures should be implemented to limit hunting and protect habitat.