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Stork Arrives in Florida by Jet  -page 2-  11-30-62

The normal range of the Black Stork during the breeding season is from Spain eastward to north China and Korea. It is a rare straggler to the British Isles. In winter it moves southward into South Africa. It is a shy bird, quite different in disposition toward humans from the White Stork which builds its nest frequently on the roofs of human habitations. The Black Stork nests in ledges of cliffs, or at a considerable height in forest trees. Its preferred habitat is wild marsh tracts or meadows in mixed or coniferous woods. It is about the same size as our Wood Ibis or Wood Stork, over three feet in length and standing high on long red legs. In contrast to the Wood Ibis which has white plumage with black wing tips and a naked black head, the Black Stork is glossy black except for white belly and its head is feathered. It also has a red bill and red skin about the eye.

The Florida Audubon Society plans to keep the Black Stork at Audubon Headquarters in Maitland for a few days to be sure the bird is sufficiently fed and well cared for, then it will be taken to one of the more remote sanctuaries where there is proper Stork food available, to fend for itself. 

Included in those welcoming the Stork at McCoy were C. Russell Mason, executive director of the Florida Audubon Society, Margaret H. Hundley, ornithologist of the Audubon staff, Mrs. H.A. MacDonald, Business Manager, in charge of youth activities for the Society, S. Carleton Rogers and Dr. C. W. Woodall of Orlando, active members of the Society who had their photographic equipment ready to provide the first records for a wild Black Stork in Florida.