They have very long legs and long, stout, pointed bills. They fly with their legs extended behind and with necks fully extended forward. Almost voiceless, they do emit low grunts or hisses and loudly rattle and snap their bills.
Most species eat aquatic animals and insects, and some feed on carrion.
Slightly webbed feet combined with their long legs enables them to wade in shallow water. Their plumage is commonly black and white. Both parents incubate and care for the young. Three to six eggs are laid and the young leave the nest at 8-9 weeks of age. There are thirteen species of stork.