Updated
Black-headed heron Uganda is the most widespread large heron in the country, equally at home in grassland and wetland, and one of the most commonly seen birds on any Uganda safari. The black-headed heron is a large grey heron with a black head and neck and a white throat. Unlike most herons, it often hunts on dry land, stalking grassland, farmland and roadsides for rodents, insects, frogs and lizards. It is one of the most common herons in Uganda and is seen everywhere from Kampala and Entebbe to the savannah parks.
Black-Headed Heron Uganda: Savannah Heron Facts and Guide
Habits
Black-headed herons walk slowly through grass, then strike with their bill. They also fish in shallow water. They breed in colonies in tall trees, often in towns and villages, building stick nests and returning to the same trees year after year. Colonies can be noisy and smelly, with chicks calling loudly for food.
Telling it apart
The grey heron is similar but has a white head and neck with a black stripe, and it feeds mainly in water. The Goliath heron is much larger and chestnut-coloured. In flight, the black-headed heron shows contrasting black and white under the wings.
Where to see it
You will see them along roads, in fields and on game drives in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison and Lake Mburo. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to the Goliath heron, the sacred ibis, Queen Elizabeth and Uganda birding.
Frequently asked questions
Almost everywhere, including towns, farmland and savannah parks.
Rodents, insects, frogs, lizards and fish.
It has a black head and neck and often hunts on dry land.
In colonies in tall trees, often in towns.
