Ibises and spoonbills · Pelicans and herons
Eurasian Spoonbill
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Platalea leucorodia
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Voice
Call
Call
How to recognize it
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Up to 1 m long
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White plumage, black legs and a black bill with a broadened, spoon-shaped tip
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In breeding plumage, a rear crest and an ochre patch at the base of the neck
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In flight, neck held outstretched
About the species
Most of the Eurasian Spoonbill’s plumage is white, set off by long dark legs and a black bill with a yellow tip that widens into a spoon-shaped end. In breeding season, a crest grows at the back of its head and a yellow patch appears at the base of its neck. It flies with its neck stretched straight ahead.
While feeding, it sweeps its slightly open bill from side to side through shallow water. It is mostly quiet, with occasional bill snaps, low grunts or trumpet calls, even at breeding colonies. It also gathers in small groups, sometimes among herons and other waterbirds.
It uses shallow marshes, lakes, rivers and coastal lagoons, in fresh, brackish or salty water, often over muddy or sandy bottoms. Its food includes aquatic insects, worms, crustaceans, frogs and small fish. Northern breeding populations usually move south for winter, while warmer-region populations may stay year-round or move only locally.
Where to find
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At shallow, muddy lakes and marshes, look for the Eurasian Spoonbill sweeping its bill from side to side as it feeds.
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In spring, scan reedbeds and low bushes or trees over water for colonies with platform nests made of sticks and vegetation.
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During migration, watch above wetlands for flocks flying with their necks stretched forward.
