Rufous-bellied Heron
NameRufous-bellied Heron
Common NameRufous-bellied Heron
Scientific NameArdeola rufiventris
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)61.5
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, back, and wings are dark slate-grey to bluish-grey, contrasting sharply with the rich rufous-chestnut belly and flanks. It has bright yellow eyes and a bicolored bill, yellowish at the base with a dark culmen. Legs and feet are yellowish-green.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, but may emit a harsh 'kwaark' or 'graak' call when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in central and southern regions, associated with freshwater wetlands.
Identifying FeaturesDark slate-grey upperparts, Rufous belly and flanks, Bright yellow eyes, Bicolored bill (yellowish base, dark culmen), Yellowish-green legs
Description
A medium-sized heron characterized by its dark slate-grey upperparts and contrasting rufous belly. It typically forages in shallow freshwater wetlands, often stalking small aquatic prey.
