Eurasian Spoonbill

Platalea leucorodia

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2 recent observations

Brief #

All white except for its dark legs, black bill with a yellow tip.

Synonyms #

  • Espátula común (Spanish)
  • Cullereiro (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Eurasian Spoonbill is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

Almost unmistakable in most of its range. The breeding bird is all white except for its dark legs, black bill with a yellow tip, and a yellow breast patch like a pelican. It has a crest in the breeding season. Non-breeders lack the crest and breast patch, and immature birds have a pale bill and black tips to the primary flight feathers. Unlike herons, spoonbills fly with their necks outstretched.

Measurements #

Length: 70 - 95 cm
Wingspan: 1.15 - 1.35 m
Weight: 1.13 - 1.96 kg