Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, floodplains

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Greater Adjutant, or Leptoptilos dubius, is a large wading bird from the Ciconiidae family, primarily found in South and Southeast Asia, especially in India and Cambodia. This bird is notable for its impressive size, reaching up to 1.5 meters in height, with a wingspan that can exceed 2.5 meters. Its plumage is mainly gray with white highlights, and it has a bare, often reddish head and neck. The Greater Adjutant is a scavenger, feeding mainly on carcasses, but it can also consume fish and small animals. It plays a crucial ecological role by cleaning ecosystems of decomposing organic matter.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Greater Adjutant, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. These birds, though suspicious, can be observed in wetlands and marshes. It is best to remain discreet and blend into the environment to avoid scaring them away. The best times to photograph them are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and bird activity is at its peak.