The shoebill (Balaeniceps rex), also known as Abu Markub, is an African bird that was previously classified among the wading birds but is now more closely associated with the pelicans. Named for its powerful bill, this bird inhabits swamps. Due to its unique morphology, it is assigned to its own family, the Balaenicipitidae. The shoebill owes its name to the shape of its bill, which is exceptionally long, but also very deep and wide.