DISTRIBUTION:

The Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) is natural to Africa and Asia. Its distribution extends throughout the African continent south of the Sahara Dessert. Also present in the Arabian Peninsula thru India.

HABITAT:

Usually on the water edge of fresh water deposits. Also visits the estuaries and fresh water swamps.

BEHAVIOR:

Active at night and during the crepuscular hours.

REPRODUCTION:

Nesting is solitary and in well spread out colonies. The nest is done on not too tall trees, among the grass and on rocks. The clutch is two to tree light blue eggs.

FOOD:

The diet consists of fish.

DESCRIPTION:

This is the tallest of all herons, in length it reaches from 1.2 to 1.4 meters. Both sexes have similar appearance.

OTHER NAMES:

The Goliath Heron in Spanish is called “Garza Goliat”.