Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) in Flight – Vadla Dam, Gujarat

This original wildlife photograph captures a Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) in flight at Vadla Dam, Gujarat, India. The photograph showcases the elegant flight of one of India’s most recognizable large waterbirds against the natural wetland environment of Gujarat.

ABOUT THE PAINTED STORK

The Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is a large wading bird belonging to the stork family Ciconiidae. It is easily recognized by its long yellowish bill, predominantly white body, black wing markings and distinctive pink tertial feathers.

Painted Storks are closely associated with wetlands and other shallow-water habitats where they search for aquatic prey. They are generally resident birds in India, although local movements may occur depending on water and food availability.

PAINTED STORK IN FLIGHT

The Painted Stork has a distinctive flight profile, with its long neck extended and broad wings providing powerful, graceful flight. Photographing this species in flight offers an opportunity to capture its impressive wingspan and characteristic black-and-white plumage.

This photograph focuses on the Painted Stork in flight, making it an excellent addition to bird photography collections and wildlife-themed displays.

PAINTED STORK AT VADLA DAM

Vadla Dam provides a wetland environment where waterbirds can be observed. The presence of water attracts a variety of aquatic and wetland-associated bird species, making such reservoirs and dams valuable locations for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

This photograph documents the Painted Stork at Vadla Dam in Gujarat, connecting the species with the wetland landscapes that form an important part of Gujarat’s birdlife.

HABITAT

Painted Storks are strongly associated with wetland habitats. They can be found around:

• Freshwater wetlands
• Lakes and reservoirs
• Dams and shallow water bodies
• Marshes
• Flooded areas
• Agricultural wetlands
• Other suitable aquatic habitats

Wetlands provide important feeding and breeding resources for Painted Storks and many other waterbirds.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Common Name: Painted Stork
Scientific Name: Mycteria leucocephala
Bird Group: Stork / Waterbird
Family: Ciconiidae
Behaviour: In Flight
Location: Vadla Dam, Gujarat, India
Habitat: Wetlands, dams, marshes, shallow water and flooded areas
Diet: Fish, aquatic animals and other wetland prey
Status in Gujarat: Resident
Global Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
Indian Protection: Schedule II
Photographer: Amarjeetsinh Jhala
Photography Type: Bird & Wildlife Photography

ABOUT THIS PHOTOGRAPH

This photograph captures a Painted Stork in flight at Vadla Dam, Gujarat, highlighting the beauty of this large Indian waterbird and its connection with wetland habitats.

The photograph is suitable for bird photography collections, wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, educational projects, bird identification resources, conservation material, magazines, books, calendars, websites, exhibitions and other licensed applications.

ORIGINAL WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMARJEETSINH JHALA

This is an original wildlife photograph captured by wildlife and nature photographer Amarjeetsinh Jhala.

The photograph represents Gujarat’s rich bird diversity and showcases the Painted Stork in its natural wetland environment.

CONSERVATION

The Painted Stork is currently classified as Least Concern (LC) globally. The 2025 State of India’s Birds assessment lists it as a resident wetland-associated species in India and under Schedule II of India’s Wildlife Protection Act. The national assessment reports a stable long-term trend but a declining current annual trend.

Photographs of wetland birds such as the Painted Stork can help increase appreciation and awareness of India’s important wetlands and their wildlife.

LICENSING OPTIONS

Personal Use – Suitable for personal collections, wallpapers and other non-commercial applications.

Commercial Use – Suitable for websites, advertising, digital marketing, promotional campaigns and other commercial projects.

Printing & Publication – Suitable for magazines, books, calendars, brochures, exhibitions, editorial projects and high-quality printed publications.