One of the most familiar wading birds in this district, the White-faced Heron can be found in the shallow edges of farm dams, in swamps and creeks, and also on the rocky platforms of the intertidal areas. It sometimes inhabits open paddocks.

It eats yabbies, frogs and tadpoles, small fish and insects. When it is not feeding it will perch in a tree often over water. It builds its flat, untidy nest high in trees laying three to five brilliant turquoise eggs. Usually solitary or in pairs, it will form small flocks in winter. Its call is a drawn out, croaking sound, particularly in the breeding season.

Size: 66-70cm

Photo and Illustration: Mark Trinham