Grey Heron
A well-known species here is the Grey Heron, which can reach up to 100 centimetres in height and weigh up to 2,075 grams. The wingspan ranges from 175 to 195 centimetres.
Appearance
A well-known species here is the Grey Heron; this can grow up to 100 centimetres in height and reach a weight of 2075 grams. The wingspan ranges from 175 to 195 centimetres. The individual sexes are hardly distinguishable visually, although it should be mentioned that the males are usually larger than the females. A striking feature that gave the Grey Heron its name is the grey colour of its plumage. However, it is usually only the upper side of the wings and the back that are grey, the neck, head, breast and underside of the wings are significantly lighter and almost white. Furthermore, the Grey Heron has black eye stripes and matching crest feathers that run over the back of the head. Lastly, the beak and legs should be mentioned, both of which are a dark orange colour.
Preferred habitat and diet of the Grey Heron
In Africa, it can mainly be found in the southern regions. Individual populations also exist in Central Africa. An important factor in the Grey Heron's habitat is that it finds enough shallow water spots where it can catch its prey. The bird can be spotted both at freshwater sources and along the coast, as long as there is enough food available. The diet of the Grey Heron mainly consists of fish, but it also eats amphibians or even small mammals, such as field mice or water rats. In most cases, the heron is either sedentary or a migratory bird, although this mainly depends on its habitat. In Africa, the heron remains loyal to its region, whereas in Europe or Western Asia, the bird usually migrates southwards in winter.
