Scopus umbretta umbretta

(Gmelin, 1789)

Vernacular names
English : Hamerkop
French : Ombrette africaine

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Pelecaniformes
Family : Scopidae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a total length of 56 cm for a weight of 430 g. Unmistakable species with its long thick black bill and its horizontal crest at back of head. Plumage entirely brown (darker for subspecies minor).

Range and habitat
This species occurs in most of Subaharan Africa, Madagascar and in South-western Arabian Peninsula. Mostly found in wetlands, also rocky coasts, with trees around.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : This species remains globally common around its range, including Madagascar. It is sensitive to water pollution but no population declines noted so far.
Ex-Situ Programs : ESB in Europe

Observation
Plzen Zoo (Czechia)

 

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