Royal Spoonbill
NameRoyal Spoonbill
Common NameRoyal Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea regia
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)77.5
Weight (g)1750
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely white-bodied with black legs and a long, black spatulate bill. During breeding season, they develop a shaggy white crest at the back of the head and a yellow-orange patch at the base of the neck. The bare skin around the eyes and on the lores is black, with a distinctive yellow-orange patch above the eyes.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but may produce soft grunts, hisses, and bill-clattering sounds, particularly when disturbed or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, preferring tropical and temperate regions.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive spatulate (spoon-shaped) black bill, All-white plumage, Black legs, Black facial skin with yellow-orange patches (especially above the eyes), Shaggy white crest during breeding season
Description
The Royal Spoonbill is a large, elegant white wading bird known for its distinctive spatulate (spoon-shaped) black bill. It feeds by sweeping its bill from side to side through shallow water to detect and capture aquatic prey. Breeding adults develop a shaggy crest and yellow-orange facial markings.
