Pied Heron, Adelaide Zoo, South Australia

Pied Herons are found in coastal and sub-coastal northern Australia. Their range also extends to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Occasionally they can be found further south. So far I have yet to add this species to my list of birds seen. The individual shown in these photos is on exhibit in the walk through aviary at the Adelaide Zoo.

Pied Herons can be found in wetlands, lakes, lagoons, estuaries, mudflats and sewage farms. It is easily confused with the White-necked Heron but is much smaller, and has dark feathers covering the head which is white in the White-necked Heron.

Pied Heron, Adelaide Zoo, South Australia