Western Reef Heron
NameWestern Reef Heron
Common NameWestern Reef Heron
Scientific NameEgretta gularis
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsThe bird in the image is the dark morph, characterized by uniform slate-grey plumage over its body, head, and neck, with a distinct white stripe on the throat. Its bill is yellowish-orange, and its legs are dark. The alternative white morph is entirely pure white.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but may emit harsh croaks or squawks, particularly when disturbed or within breeding colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coasts of tropical West Africa, the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, and extending eastward to India and Sri Lanka.
Identifying Featuresdark slate-grey plumage (dark morph), white plumage (white morph), yellowish-orange bill, pale throat stripe (dark morph), yellow eyes, coastal habitat
Description
The Western Reef Heron is a medium-sized heron found in coastal areas, often seen wading in shallow waters. It exhibits two distinct color morphs: a dark slate-grey and a pure white. This species typically hunts by running or stirring the water with its feet to flush out prey.
