The Black-headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala) is a large wading bird standing 85 cm tall, and it has a 150-cm wingspan. Of the heron family Ardeidae, common throughout much of Africa south of the Sahara, and Madagascar. This species usually breeds in the wet season in colonies in trees, reed beds. It builds a bulky stick nest and lays 24 eggs. It often feeds in shallow water, spearing fish or frogs with its long, sharp bill. It will also hunt well away from water, taking large insects, small mammals and birds. It will wait motionless for prey, or slowly stalk its victim. The Black-headed Heron It is nearly as large as the Grey Heron, which it resembles in appearance, although it is generally darker. Its plumage is largely grey above, and paler grey below. It has a powerful dusky bill
