Great-billed Heron

1. Large, dark gray heron with a thick, dagger-like bill

2. Lacks black head and neck markings seen in similar species

3. Usually seen alone in mangroves, mudflats, or coastal shallows

These herons are expert hunters, feeding mainly on fish, which they spear with their long, sharp bills. They are patient, often waiting motionless before striking, or slowly stalking their prey in shallow water. Great-billed Herons are typically solitary, defending their feeding territories. Breeding occurs in large stick nests built high in mangrove trees or other coastal vegetation, with clutches usually consisting of two pale blue-green eggs. Most nesting activity is observed during the spring and summer months between September and as late as January.

Great-billed Herons are found along the northern coasts of Australia, as well as across Southeast Asia and New Guinea. They prefer coastal habitats-especially mangroves, tidal mudflats, estuaries, and sometimes offshore islands. While rarely seen inland, they may occasionally visit large rivers or shallow ponds. Look for them standing quietly at the water’s edge or stalking prey at low tide.