Template:POTD/2009-11-22
The White-faced Heron (Egretta novaehollandiae) is a common heron found throughout most of Australasia. It can be found almost anywhere near shallow water, fresh or salt. Adults are relatively small, averaging about 550 g (19 oz) in weight and 60–70 cm (24–28 in) in height. They are pale blue-grey in colour, with white on the forehead, crown, chin and upper throat. The crown pattern is variable, with the white occasionally spreading down the neck; the variability makes identification of individuals possible. The beak is black and often pale grey at the base.Photo credit: Fir0002