First nesting record of Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus (Aves: Ciconiiformes) in Kumana National Park, Sri Lanka

Black-necked Stork is a tall, long-necked wading bird of the stork family (Ciconiidae). It is a rare breeding resident and fewer than 50 birds inhabit the island of Sri Lanka. This study was conducted in Kumana National Park from August 2022 to August 2023 to observe nesting characteristics of Black-necked Storks. Nesting locations were searched during three predefined periods each day. During the study, the first recorded Black-necked Stork nest in Sri Lanka was observed, with both male and female birds engaging in nesting behavior. The findings provide important insights for conserving this nationally critically endangered bird species.