goliath heron

bird

Also known as: Ardea goliath

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The goliath heron (Ardea goliath) is a very large heron native to Africa. It is characterized by a brown head, neck, and underparts, with slaty gray on its back.1

Herons, in general, are long-legged wading birds found worldwide, most commonly in tropical regions. They typically feed in shallow waters, catching fish and frogs. Herons are known for their distinctive S-shaped neck and the way they fly with their legs trailing. They belong to the family Ardeidae, which also includes egrets and bitterns. The goliath heron is noted as the largest among all herons.2

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heron
Largest of all is the goliath heron (A. goliath) of Africa, a 150-cm (59-inch) bird with a reddish head and neck. The purple heron (A. purpurea) is a darker and smaller Old World form.
Read More
Largest of all is the goliath heron (A. goliath) of Africa, a 150-cm (59-inch) bird with a reddish head and neck. The purple heron (A. purpurea) is a darker and smaller Old World form.
Read More