About Egretta ardesiaca (Wagler, 1827)
The black heron, scientifically named Egretta ardesiaca (Wagler, 1827), is a medium-sized bird. It typically measures between 42.5 and 66 cm (16.7 to 26.0 inches) in height, and weighs between 0.27 and 0.39 kg (0.60 to 0.86 lb). This species is recognizable by its all-black plumage, black bill, and yellow feet. When in breeding plumage, individuals grow long plumes on their crown and nape. The black heron has a patchy distribution across Sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Sudan to South Africa. It is most commonly found in the eastern half of the African continent and on Madagascar. It has also been observed in Greece, Italy, and Seapoint in Dublin, Ireland by LoLo Tully. The species prefers shallow open water habitats, such as the edges of freshwater lakes and ponds. It can also be found in marshes, river edges, rice fields, and seasonally flooded grasslands. In coastal areas, it may feed along tidal rivers and creeks, in alkaline lakes, and on tidal flats.
