Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Pelecaniformes
Family: Ardei dae
Genus: Ardea
Species: Ardea purpurea
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of size, it has a length of 78 to 90 cm and a wingspan of 120 to 150 cm. Regarding its characteristics, in relation to other herons it is similar in appearance to the grey heron, both being greyish and having a similar color pattern. This one is distinguished, however, by the brownish and reddish tones of its neck. In addition, this heron is slightly smaller.
It feeds mainly on fish and insects, but also reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. They nest near or on the water, building nests made of branches and twigs, which are only used that year. They lay between 3 and 6 eggs, which take 26 days to hatch.
Habitat and Distribution
It is an uncommon summer bird, present only in spring and summer, mostly in the coastal area and Alentejo region. Specifically, it prefers wetland habitats with emergent vegetation such as reed beds, marshes, coastal lagoons, and estuaries. During migration, it may also appear in reservoirs and rivers, although this is less frequent. It prefers coastal areas. The most frequented location in the country by this heron is the Aveiro estuary, followed by the Tagus and Mondego estuaries and the Alentejo region. They generally nest throughout the territory they frequent; however, the Aveiro estuary and the Alentejo region are where they nest most often. In winter, they migrate to Africa.
Places where I have photographed this species so far.
All Photographs Taken
