Ardea melanocephala Children & Vigors, 1826

Taxonomy and Naming

The black-headed heron (Ardea melanocephala) is a wading bird belonging to the heron family Ardeidae.

General Distribution

It is common across most of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar.

Movement Patterns

Most black-headed herons are permanent residents, but some populations in West Africa move further north during the rainy season.

Breeding Season and Nesting Sites

This species typically breeds in the wet season, nesting in colonies located in trees, reedbeds or cliffs.

Nest Construction and Clutch Size

It constructs a bulky stick nest, and lays between 2 and 4 eggs per clutch.

Aquatic Feeding Habits

Black-headed herons often feed in shallow water, spearing fish or frogs with their long, sharp bill.

Terrestrial Prey

They also hunt far from water, where they prey on large insects, small mammals, and other birds.

Foraging Behavior

To catch prey, they wait motionless for their target or slowly stalk it.

Body Size Measurements

Black-headed herons are large birds, reaching 85 cm in height and a wingspan of 150 cm.

Size Comparison to Related Species

They are nearly as large as the grey heron, which they resemble in appearance, although they are generally darker overall.

Plumage Coloration

Most of their upper body plumage is grey, and their underparts are paler grey.

Bill Characteristics

They have a powerful, dusky-colored bill.

Flight Posture

Their flight is slow, with their neck retracted.

Heron Flight Distinguishing Feature

This retracted neck in flight is a characteristic feature of herons and bitterns, and sets them apart from storks, cranes, and spoonbills, which hold their necks extended when flying.

In-Flight Markings

In flight, the white underwing coverts of the black-headed heron are very noticeable.

Vocalization

The call of this species is a loud croak.