Asian Openbills in Melaka

19th January 2013, Batang Tiga, Melaka

Local Name: Scientific Name: Anastomus oscitans Equipment: Nikon 1 V2 + Nikkor  AFS 400mm f2.8ED-VR They are currently the star birds, the local papers  even covered the news of their arrival  in several states of Malaysia. Birders and photographer alike including yours truly have  made their way to these locations so as not to  miss the opportunity to view these majestic storks in their hundreds. Paddy growers in the area are simply delighted with their presence since these birds feed on snails which   destroy the paddy plants.                     Melaka is the land of ‘Hang Tuah’ literally translated as ‘you’re lucky’,  I’ve been wanting to see this bird for a few years now, so looks like this year ‘I‘m in Luck’.