The Yellow Billed Spoonbill (Platalea flavipes) is one of the two species of Sponbills that are found in Australia.
Measuring around 90 cm (35.5 in), the yellow-billed spoonbill has all white plumage, although at times it can look creamy white rather than pure white. The long spoon-shaped bill is about 200mm long and the bare face, legs and feet are all yellow. Adults have red marking on the beak near the face and darker marking across the lower end of the beak. Adults also have a black band around the area where the beak joins the face.
Unfortunately, none of these adult features can be seen on this bird as it is a juvenile!
This species is found in a range of wetland habitat and it will come as no surprise that this bird was photographed at the Werribee Sewage Works.
I like this series of pictures as they show the shape and structure of the beak.
As ever, to join in with WBW, click on the link below. SM
He's not quite as flashy as the roseate.
ReplyDeleteSpoonbills they're so fascinating! Thank you, Stewart 😊
ReplyDeleteEven if the bird doesn't show much yellow yet, it's a beautiful representative of its species - and yes, the spoon is clearly visible 😊🥰
ReplyDeleteAll the best from Austria, Traude
https://rostrose.blogspot.com/2025/03/februar-marz-impressionen-fortsetzung.html
I know I've said this before but I love the spoonbills!
ReplyDeleteThis is an amazing bird. Love that bill!
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteThey certainly draw attention! YAM xx
Wow, how unusual!
ReplyDeleteA great bird to photograph Stewart. Thanks for hositng and commenting. Have a great week ahead
ReplyDeleteA few years ago, a white stork appeared in Finland. That bird would come and visit Finland.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots! It certainly looks different as it turns its head.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a dinosaur with a bizarre bill. Great photographs.
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