Grey Heron
It is a large bird, standing
up to 100 cm (39 in) tall and measuring 84–102 cm (33–40 in) long
with a 155–195 cm (61–77 in) wingspan. The body weight can range from
1.02–2.08 kg (2.2–4.6 lb).Its plumage is largely grey above,
and off-white below. Adults have a white head with a broad black supercilium and
slender crest, while immatures have a dull grey head. It has a powerful,
pinkish-yellow bill, which is brighter in breeding adults. It has a slow
flight, with its long neck retracted (S-shaped). This is characteristic of
herons and bitterns, and distinguishes them from storks, cranes and spoonbills,
which extend their necks. The call is a loud croaking "fraaank". The
Australian White-faced Heron is often incorrectly called a Grey
Heron. In Ireland the grey heron is often colloquially called a
"crane".
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