Painted Stork

The Painted Stork is one of India's most visually striking waterbirds — a large wader with salmon-pink tertials, yellow bill, and intricate black-and-white patterning. It breeds colonially in large trees over water, often in mixed heronries. Keoladeo and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary host massive breeding colonies. Watch Painted Storks nesting in India's wetlands. Spectacular colonial breeding guide and best birding sanctuaries.

Plan field days around Jul–Nov: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Keoladeo National Park.