Eurasian Spoonbill
NameEurasian Spoonbill
Common NameEurasian Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea leucorodia
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)125
Length (cm)86
Weight (g)1600
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely white with long black legs. During the breeding season, they develop a shaggy yellow crest and a yellow patch on the breast. The long, flattened bill is black with a distinctive yellow or orange tip.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but can produce grunting or clattering sounds, especially at the nest site.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, Asia, and Africa, breeding in temperate regions and migrating to tropical and subtropical areas for winter.
Identifying FeaturesSpoon-shaped bill, All-white plumage, Long black legs, Yellow crest (breeding adults), Black bill with yellow/orange tip
Description
The Eurasian Spoonbill is a large, white wading bird easily recognized by its distinctive long, spatulate bill. It forages in shallow waters, sweeping its bill from side to side to catch prey, often in groups.
