Great-billed Heron

Great-billed Heron

Scientific Name: Ardea sumatrana

Malay Name: Pucung Seriap Lembu

Chinese Name: 大嘴鹭

Range: Found from Southeast Asia to Papua New Guinea and Australia

Taxonomy: Monotypic.

Size: 114-115 cm

Identification: Non-breeding adult resembles a large and long-necked heron with dusky grey overall plumage and long stout dagger shaped bill. Adult in breeding plumage has distinct white-tipped greyish plumes on scapulars and breast. Plumage of juvenile appears warmer-tinged than non-breeding adult.

Similar looking species: Grey Heron, Purple Heron

Habitat: Mudflats and other coastal habitats.

Behaviour/Ecology: Usually solitary, stalking prey at the edge of mudflats or estuaries.

Local Status: Uncommon resident

Conservation Status: Least Concern (BirdLife International 2016)

Location: Labrador Park, Pulau Semakau, Pulau Hantu, Sungei Buloh, Lim Chu Kang, Pulau Ubin and Pulau Tekong.

References:

BirdLife International. (2016). Ardea sumatrana. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T22697028A95222998.en. Accessed on 1 January 2023

Jeyarajasingam, A., & Pearson, A. (2012). A Field Guide to the Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Oxford University Press.

Robson, C. (2014). Field guide to the birds of South-East Asia (Second Edition). Bloomsbury Publishing, London.

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