Black-headed heron facts for kids
The black-headed heron (Ardea melanocephala) is a tall, wading bird. It belongs to the heron family, called Ardeidae. You can find this bird in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Most black-headed herons stay in one place, but some from West Africa travel north when it's the rainy season.
Quick facts for kids Black-headed heron |
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| Mikumi National Park, Tanzania | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ardea
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| Species: |
melanocephala
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| Distribution map of Black-headed heron | |
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
The black-headed heron is a large bird. It stands about 85 centimeters (33 inches) tall. Its wings can spread out to 150 centimeters (59 inches) wide.
This heron looks a lot like the grey heron, but it is usually darker. Its feathers are mostly gray on top and lighter gray underneath. It has a strong, dark bill.
How Does It Fly?
When a black-headed heron flies, it moves slowly. It pulls its neck back close to its body. This is how herons and bitterns fly. It helps you tell them apart from birds like storks, cranes, and spoonbills, which fly with their necks stretched out.
When the heron is flying, you can easily see the white feathers under its wings. They stand out very clearly.
Where Does It Live and Breed?
Black-headed herons usually build their nests during the wet season. They often gather in large groups called colonies. They build their nests in trees, in tall reeds, or on cliffs.
Their nests are big and made of sticks. Female herons usually lay 2 to 4 eggs.
What Does It Eat?
This heron often hunts for food in shallow water. It uses its long, sharp bill to spear fish or frogs.
It also hunts far away from water. It can catch large insects, small mammals, and even other birds. The heron will either wait very still for its prey or walk slowly to sneak up on it.
What Does It Sound Like?
The black-headed heron makes a loud, croaking sound. This is its call.
Gallery
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A black-headed heron flying
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Gathering nest material
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In Amboseli National Park, Kenya
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In West Coast National Park, South Africa
