White-headed Stilt

Himantopus leucocephalus

The White-headed Stilt, scientifically known as Himantopus leucocephalus, is a striking wading bird found in Australia and New Guinea. It is characterized by its long pink legs, black and white plumage, and distinctive white head. These elegant birds are commonly found in shallow wetlands, salt marshes, and coastal lagoons. They are skilled foragers, using their long, slender bills to probe the mud for small invertebrates and crustaceans. White-headed Stilts are known for their graceful and agile flight, often seen in large flocks during the breeding season. Although they are not currently considered globally threatened, habitat loss and degradation pose potential risks to their populations.

Habitat: Shallow wetlands, salt marshes, coastal lagoons