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African spoonbill

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Platalea alba
Water-straining
Spoonbills locate tiny food items by sweeping their bills through the water. The bill snaps shut when it senses food.

Breeding plumage
During breeding season a luxurious crest develops on the bird's head.

Habitat/Range
Aquatic areas near shallow lakes, rivers, marshes, and coastal estuaries of central and southern Africa
Wild Diet
Small fish, Aquatic invertebrates, and Insects
Predators
Snakes (eggs and chicks), Birds (eggs and chicks), Humans (eggs and chicks), Cats (adults), Foxes (adults), and Wild dogs (adults)
Reproduction
Nesting colonies may have up to 250 pairs. Two to 4 eggs are laid with incubation shared by both parents.
Conservation
STABLE
Population stable, but could be affected by loss of wetlands.



 


Friday, 20 November 2009

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