Bird Guide

Black Heron vs Pacific Reef Heron

Black Heron (Egretta ardesiaca)

Black Heron

Egretta ardesiaca

Large324 gWetland

The black heron is a medium-sized bird, with a typical height range of 42.5 to 66 cm (16.7 to 26.0 in). Their weight can range from 0.27 to 0.39 kg (0.60 to 0.86 lb). They are known for their black plumage, black bill, and yellow feet. In breeding plumage it grows long plumes on the crown and nape.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: amantedarmanin · CC BY 4.0
Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta sacra)

Pacific Reef Heron

Egretta sacra

Large502 gCoastal

Pacific reef herons are medium-sized herons, reaching 57 to 66 cm (22 to 26 in) in length. They have a wingspan of between 90 and 110 cm (35 and 43 in) and reach an average weight of 400 g (14 oz). The species displays an unusual, non-sexual dimorphism, with some members having entirely white plumage ('light' morph) and others (the larger portion) being charcoal-grey ('dark' morph). The reason for the colour variation or "morph", is unknown, though it is most commonly thought to be related to camouflage. The plumage of immature herons tends to be browner and duller in colour.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: coenobita · CC BY 4.0

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Black Heron and Pacific Reef Heron.