Adult Bird:
The adult bird exhibits two plumage variations. The white form has entirely white plumage. The black form has dark grayish-black plumage except for a white chin. The belly is slightly paler than the back, with a subtle brownish tinge. Long, pointed shoulder feathers have lighter grayish-black tips. The long, pointed feathers under the neck extend to cover the chest. The crown features a short crest.
Juvenile Bird:
Juveniles typically have a plumage that is a mix of the two adult forms. They have yellow eyes. The bill is horn-brown, with a pale yellow base and edges. When in the white plumage form, the bill is usually yellow. Legs vary in color, ranging from dark yellowish-green (commonly in birds with white plumage) to pale green or light black.
Measurements:
- Wing: 270 – 296 mm
- Tail: 91 – 95 mm
- Leg: 75 – 77 mm
- Bill: 76 – 78 mm
Distribution:
The Black Heron is distributed across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the coasts of Myanmar, Malaysia, and Indochina.
In Vietnam, the Black Heron has been observed in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Ha Long Bay.