Wildlife
Greater Adjutant Nepal: The Rarest Stork of the Terai
The greater adjutant is one of the world's rarest storks, and Nepal's eastern Terai wetlands support a small but critical population alongside the Koshi Tappu reserve system.
Overview
The greater adjutant (Leptoptilos dubius) is a massive stork standing 1.5 metres tall with a wingspan reaching 2.6 metres -- among the largest flying birds in the world. Despite its size, it is Endangered with a global population of only 800 to 1,200 individuals, concentrated in India (Assam) and Cambodia, with small numbers in Nepal. The species is a scavenger, historically associated with human garbage dumps and carcass disposal sites, which has given it an unfortunate reputation that masks its genuine ecological role.
Nepal Sightings
The greater adjutant is an irregular visitor to Nepal's eastern Terai, with most records from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and the Koshi floodplain. Numbers vary annually -- in some winters 10 to 20 birds are seen on the Koshi Barrage area, in others none. The Saptakoshi floodplain east of the barrage is worth scanning from the barrage road between November and February.
Chitwan National Park also has occasional records, particularly around the Rapti River confluence area and near ranger camps where organic waste might attract scavengers.
Identification
The greater adjutant is unmistakable when seen -- massive grey body, bare reddish-orange head and neck, a large pouch hanging from the front of the neck, and white ruff around the base of the neck. The bare head and neck are adaptations for feeding inside carcasses without feather fouling. At rest, the distinctive inflatable neck pouch is often visible from 200 metres.
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FAQ
What is the difference between a greater adjutant and a lesser adjutant?
Both species occur in Nepal. The greater adjutant is larger, has a larger neck pouch, and has a pale band on the wing visible in flight. The lesser adjutant has a smaller pouch and lacks the pale wing band. Lesser adjutants are slightly more common in Nepal.
Why is the greater adjutant endangered?
Wetland drainage, hunting, and the loss of traditional community tolerance (where the birds historically scavenged at open dumps) are primary factors. Assam, India has a community-led conservation programme that has stabilised breeding colonies there.
What time of year are greater adjutants most likely in Nepal?
November to February are the peak months for vagrant birds from the Indian population. Resident breeding is not confirmed in Nepal, but wintering birds use Koshi Tappu's wetlands regularly.
