The Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) is a very large stork-like bird. The Shoebill and the Hammerkop (Scopus umbretta) are the "missing links" that connect pelicans and storks. It derives its name from its massive shoe-shaped bill.

The bird was known to both ancient Egyptians and Arabs. There are Egyptian images depicting the Shoebill, while the Arabs referred to the bird as abu markub, which means one with a shoe, a reference to the bird's distinctive bill. The population is estimated at between 5,000 and 8,000 individuals, the majority of which live in Sudan.

Shoebills feed in muddy waters, preying on fish, frogs, reptiles such as baby crocodiles, and small mammals.