Purple Heron

Ardea purpurea

The Purple Heron has a widespread distribution - it is found in Africa and parts of Europe and Asia.

It is a large bird reaching a height of around 90 cm when standing. Despite it being a tall bird it weighs around a kilogram or less.

The Purple Heron eats frogs, fish, small mammals and insects. It normally hunts in shallow water.

These herons breed in colonies in trees or reedbeds. They make a nest out of sticks. The breeding colonies are always near water.

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References

List of South African Birds