Shoebills, also known as whale-headed storks are large birds that can grow 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 feet tall. They have a seven-inch bill likened to a Dutch show and large intense-looking eyes which give them a terrifying appearance.

While many people might be frightened of this bird, one caretaker at the Kakogawa Flower and Bird Garden in Kakogawa, Japan has formed an unlikely relationship with a shoebill that lives there.

Futaba-chan is very courteous and respectful for a bird

Named Futaba-chan, the shoebill is actually quite courteous and respectful, which is probably a big reason why she was able to befriend her caretaker. A video of one of their encounters has over 4.4 million views and shows Futaba-chan paying respect to her human friend.

Futaba-chan awaits her caretaker

As the video starts, you can quickly spot Futaba-chan as she waits patiently within her enclosure. That is one of the skills that shoebills are known for, the ability to stay perfectly still until they are ready to strike. Subsisting mainly on fish, shoebills also have serrated beaks which allow them to easily decapitate prey.

The pair seem to have the utmost respect for one another

As Futaba-chan’s caretaker friend comes into view. As the caretaker approaches her, Futaba-chan begins to nod her head, as if bowing. The caretaker also starts to bow. It would seem this is their normal way of saying hello.

The two seem like they know each other and have mutual respect for one another. It seems the caretaker is there to feed Futaba-chan as he has a bag full of fish attached behind his back.

Futaba-chan approaches her caretaker slowly

The caretaker enters Futaba-chan’s enclosure and she soon approaches him, strutting slowly across her enclosure. Her caretaker kneels patiently, waiting for her to approach.

A daily ritual

As she gets closer, Futaba-chan starts to shake her head back and forth. Her caretaker does the same and it is obvious this is all a part of their daily ritual. They even touch heads at one point. They must truly share a special bond.

Then her caretaker feeds Futaba-chan, throwing fish on the ground in front of her. She quickly gobbles them up and then it is time for a drink of water, which she drinks from a nearby pool. Meanwhile, her caretaker cleans her enclosure.

Paying one last respect

Finally, it is time for Futaba-chan to retire and she does so by going into her tiny room. But not before checking in on the caretaker one more time.

For more on Futaba-chan and her caretaker friend, watch the video below.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Sources: YouTube – HIRO@sea, San Diego Zoo