Egretta ardesiaca
Black Heron
A small, all-black heron of African wetlands, well known for its unique 'umbrella' feeding technique: it spreads its wings forward over the water to form a shaded canopy that appears to draw fish into the shadow, then stabs downward for prey. Also called Black Egret, it occurs on lakes, lagoons, flooded fields and riverine wetlands in The Gambia.
Identification
Entirely slate-black plumage with yellow feet is diagnostic; the umbrella-canopy feeding posture is unique among herons and itself a strong field identifier.
Want to see the Black Heron?
Join Yaya on a trip to one of the sites below, or ask about an itinerary built around it — he'll help you plan the best way to find it in the field.
Tours that target this bird
A carefully paced 15-day tour from the Atlantic coast through the mangrove-lined River Gambia and into the eastern part of the country, balancing serious birding with rest, wildlife and Gambian culture. Around 300 species are possible depending on season.
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A comprehensive birding, wildlife and nature tour combining the finest habitats of The Gambia with Northern Senegal's Saloum Delta — coastal wetlands, mangroves, woodland, rice fields, savannah and riverine forest, plus a boat excursion to the Scissor-tailed Kite colony at Kousmar.
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