White-bellied Heron
NameWhite-bellied Heron
Common NameWhite-bellied Heron
Scientific NameArdea insignis
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)190
Length (cm)127
Weight (g)2800
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey upperparts, head, and neck, with a distinct white belly and undertail coverts. The bill is long and yellowish, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, guttural croaks and squawks, often given when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeFound in the eastern Himalayas and Southeast Asia, including Bhutan, northeast India, Myanmar, and parts of China.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Dark slate-grey upperparts, Contrasting white belly, Long yellowish bill, Dark legs, Solitary nature
Description
The White-bellied Heron is a very large, dark grey heron with a contrasting white belly. It is a shy and solitary bird, typically found wading slowly in undisturbed wetlands and rivers, patiently hunting for prey.
