Gregarious bird that forms reproductive colonies. Build nests in trees using branches and sticks. The chicks are born very late and need more than three months to take their first flight. The breeding season takes place during the dry season, when the level of the ponds is low and the chicks can easily hunt frogs and small fish, among other prey.

Adults are primarily scavengers, although they also hunt live prey. Their long beak does not allow them to deflesh, so they need to steal meat from other scavengers. They snatch the meat from the vultures and keep them at bay until they are satisfied. Sometimes they live off the garbage deposited near the villages, thus contributing to the cleanliness of the towns.

The gular sac that they have under their enormous beak allows them to emit sounds, which will be used as a lure and during courtship.

Its powerful flight allows it to reach considerable heights taking advantage of the ascending currents of warm air. They usually fly in groups and glide majestically, keeping their heads back. It is a very restless, cunning and vigilant bird; It always moves from one side to the other and almost never becomes completely still.