Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in the bird world, some species seem designed to challenge that idea. These contenders for ugliest bird species sport bald heads, bare skin, and off-putting features that serve real evolutionary purposes.

Here are the birds that turn heads—just not always in admiration.

1. Marabou Stork

Found across Sub-Saharan Africa, the marabou stork is tall, hunched, and bald-headed, with a drooping pink air sac and a hooked bill. Its ungainly appearance is perfect for its role as a scavenger. A bare head helps it stay clean while feeding on fresh carcasses, much like other vultures.

Its massive size and black plumage give it a presence that's hard to ignore, especially when paired with booming calls during courtship displays.

2. King Vulture

The king v

See Full Page