Great-billed heron
species of bird
The great-billed heron (Ardea sumatrana) is a wading bird of the heron family Ardeidae. It is resident from southeast Asia to Papua New Guinea and Australia. Its habitats are largely coastal such as islands, coral reefs, mangroves and large rivers. However, occasionally, it can be found inland in shallow ponds.
Great-billed heron | |
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Adult in Palawan, Philippines | |
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Ardea sumatrana Raffles, 1822
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It feeds in shallow water, spearing fish with its long, sharp bill. It will wait motionless for prey, or slowly stalk its victim.