African Spoonbill

More Information

Physical Description

African spoonbills have striking white plumage, a featherless red face, and long red legs. Their elongated, thin beak ends in a flat, extended bulge resembling a spoon, which helps with capturing fish, crustaceans, and insects. They build nests made from sticks and leaves in trees above water. During breeding season, females lay three to five spotted eggs.

Interesting Fact 1

African spoonbills catch food by opening their bill in the water, sweeping it back and forth, and snapping at prey.

Interesting Fact 2

Their long legs and thin, pointed toes allow them to walk easily through varying depths of water.

Interesting Fact 3

These wading birds can have a nearly three-foot wingspan.