![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/ARCHIVE-CRITTERNAME-SHOEBILL.png?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/African-Shoebill-Balaeniceps-rex-also-known-as-Whalehead-or-Shoe-billed-Stork.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1)
Scientific Classification
KINGDOM: Animalia
PHYLUM: Chordata
CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Pelecaniformes
FAMILY: Balaenicipitidae
GENUS: Balaeniceps
SPECIES: B. rex
Conservation Status
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/status_vu.png?resize=600%2C101&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/PHYSICAL-DESCRIPTION.png?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
The shoebill is aptly named because of its large shoe-shaped beak, which can grow about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide. In fact, it’s the third largest beak among all living birds behind pelicans and large storks! They also have an impressive wing span of over 8 feet long but is one of the slowest flapping birds at an estimated 150 flaps per minute.
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Range-Habitat.png?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DIET.jpg?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/REPRODUCTION.png?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/critterfacts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OTHER-FACTS.png?resize=800%2C100&ssl=1)
The shoebill is a solitary animal that only gathers for mating and taking care of chicks. They are quiet most of the time; however, they do make a variety of noises to communicate, for mating, or for aggression. These sounds can range from chattering, mooing, or even hiccupping.