Avipedia
White-faced Heron

White-faced Heron

NameWhite-faced Heron
Common NameWhite-faced Heron
Scientific NameEgretta novaehollandiae
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)550
Plumage DetailsAdults have a blue-grey body plumage, a prominent white face, chin, and upper throat. Their legs and feet are yellowish-green, and the bill is dark grey.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a guttural 'graak' or 'garrr' call, often given when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, Indonesia, and various Pacific Islands.
Identifying FeaturesWhite face and throat, Blue-grey body plumage, Yellowish-green legs and feet, Long, dark, pointed bill

Description

The White-faced Heron is a medium-sized, slender heron with a distinctive white face and blue-grey body. It is commonly seen wading in shallow waters, patiently stalking prey with its long, pointed bill.

Related Bird species