Least Concern

A large wader, about 84–102 cm in length with a wingspan of 155–195 cm and weight around 1–2 kg. It has grey upperparts, white underparts, black streaks on the neck, and a long yellowish bill. Legs are long and greyish.

Partially migratory species — widespread across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. Northern populations tend to migrate southwards in winter.

Northern and colder populations migrate to southern Europe, South Asia, and Africa during the non-breeding season.

Breeds from March to July. Builds large stick nests in tall trees, often in colonies called heronries. Lays 3–5 eggs; both parents share incubation and feeding.

Prefers wetlands with nearby tall trees for nesting. Colonies are often established in protected areas near lakes, rivers, or marshes.

Found in freshwater and coastal wetlands, rivers, lakes, marshes, and flooded fields. Often seen standing still in shallow water hunting fish or wading slowly.

Primarily piscivorous — feeds on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, and occasionally small mammals or birds. Hunts by standing motionless or slow stalking in shallow water.