12 Small Birds With Long Necks (With Pictures)

Birds come in all shapes and sizes, and some of the most fascinating among them have long necks. These birds often have unique adaptations that make them excellent at foraging for food in various environments. In this article, we will explore several species of birds known for their long necks, detailing their characteristics, habitats, diets, and more. From the ostrich to the greater flamingo, let’s dive into the world of these incredible birds!

1. Ostrich (Struthio camelus)

• Size: 6.6-9 feet (2-2.7 m)
• Weight: 220-350 lbs (100-160 kg)
• Lifespan: 40-45 years in the wild
• Diet: Grass, seeds, fruits, and flowers

The ostrich is the largest and heaviest bird in the world, known for its long neck and powerful legs. Native to Africa, these flightless birds are remarkable runners, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour. Their long necks help them spot predators from afar in the open savannas and grasslands where they live.

Ostriches primarily feed on plant material, including grasses and seeds. They also consume insects to supplement their diet. Despite their size, ostriches are social creatures and often live in groups, which helps protect them from predators.

2. Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)

• Size: 5.7-6.6 feet (1.75-2 m)
• Weight: 50-120 lbs (23-54 kg)
• Lifespan: 10-20 years in the wild
• Diet: Fruits, seeds, flowers, and insects

The emu is the second-largest bird in the world and is native to Australia. Like the ostrich, emus have long necks and are flightless, but they are known for their unique fluffy plumage. These birds are well-adapted to the Australian outback and can thrive in various habitats, from forests to grasslands.

Emus have a diverse diet that includes fruits, seeds, and insects. They often forage for food on the ground and are known for their curious nature. Emus are also social birds, often seen in small groups, especially during breeding season.

3. Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)

• Size: 4.5-5.5 feet (1.4-1.7 m)
• Weight: 4.5-8.8 lbs (2-4 kg)
• Lifespan: 15 years in the wild
• Diet: Fish, frogs, and crustaceans

The Goliath Heron is the largest heron species and is known for its impressive stature and long neck. Found in sub-Saharan Africa, these birds inhabit wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks. Their striking blue-gray plumage and long legs make them a majestic sight near water.

Goliath Herons are skilled hunters, using their long necks to spot prey from a distance. They primarily feed on fish, but they will also catch frogs and crustaceans. Their hunting technique involves standing still and waiting patiently for the right moment to strike.

4. Great Egret (Ardea alba)

• Size: 3.3-4.3 feet (1-1.3 m)
• Weight: 2-4.5 lbs (0.9-2 kg)
• Lifespan: 15 years in the wild
• Diet: Fish, amphibians, and small mammals

The Great Egret is a stunning bird known for its long neck and elegant white plumage. It is often found in wetlands, ponds, and marshes across North America and parts of Europe and Asia. These birds are particularly striking during the breeding season when they develop long plumes on their backs.

Great Egrets are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish and amphibians. They use their sharp beaks to catch prey, often standing still and waiting for unsuspecting animals to swim by. Their graceful appearance and hunting skills make them a favorite among birdwatchers.

5. Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga)

• Size: 2.5-3.5 feet (76-107 cm)
• Weight: 3-5 lbs (1.4-2.3 kg)
• Lifespan: 15-20 years in the wild
• Diet: Fish, amphibians, and crustaceans

The Anhinga, also known as the “snake bird,” is a water bird with a long neck and a slender body. Found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and swamps in the Americas, Anhingas are often seen swimming with only their necks above water, giving them their nickname.

Anhingas are expert divers, using their long necks to catch fish and other aquatic prey. After hunting, they often perch on branches to dry their wings, which lack waterproof feathers. Their unique hunting style and striking appearance make them a fascinating bird to observe.

6. Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)

• Size: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m)
• Weight: 15-30 lbs (7-14 kg)
• Lifespan: 20-30 years in the wild
• Diet: Aquatic plants, grains, and small fish

The Trumpeter Swan is North America’s largest waterfowl, known for its long neck and elegant appearance. These swans are often found in lakes, rivers, and marshes, where they feed on aquatic vegetation. Their trumpeting call is a distinctive feature that sets them apart from other swan species.

Trumpeter Swans primarily eat aquatic plants, but they will also consume grains and small fish when available. They are social birds, often seen in pairs or small family groups. Their graceful swimming and vocalizations make them a favorite among birdwatchers.

7. Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis)

• Size: 3.3-4.6 feet (1-1.4 m)
• Weight: 6.5-14 lbs (3-6.4 kg)
• Lifespan: 20-30 years in the wild
• Diet: Plants, seeds, insects, and small animals

The Sandhill Crane is a large, migratory bird known for its long neck and legs. These cranes are found in North America, particularly in wetlands and grasslands during migration. Their graceful appearance and distinctive calls make them a popular sight in many regions.

Sandhill Cranes are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, seeds, and insects. They are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve jumping and bowing. These social birds often form large flocks during migration, creating a beautiful spectacle in the sky.

8. Southern Cassowary (Casuarius casuarius)

• Size: 4.5-6.5 feet (1.4-2 m)
• Weight: 90-130 lbs (40-59 kg)
• Lifespan: 40-50 years in the wild
• Diet: Fruits, seeds, and fungi

The Southern Cassowary is a large, flightless bird native to the tropical forests of New Guinea and nearby islands. Known for its striking blue and black plumage and long neck, the cassowary is often called the “world’s most dangerous bird” due to its powerful legs and sharp claws.

Cassowaries primarily feed on fruits, seeds, and fungi found on the forest floor. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by dispersing seeds through their droppings. Despite their size and potential danger, cassowaries are generally shy and prefer to avoid human contact.

9. Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea)

• Size: 2.5-3.5 feet (76-107 cm)
• Weight: 1-2.5 lbs (0.5-1.1 kg)
• Lifespan: 15 years in the wild
• Diet: Fish, amphibians, and crustaceans

The Little Blue Heron is a small heron known for its striking blue-gray plumage and long neck. Found in wetlands, marshes, and coastal areas in the Americas, these herons are skilled hunters and often hunt alone or in small groups.

Little Blue Herons primarily feed on fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. These small birds use their long necks and sharp beaks to catch prey while wading through shallow water. Their graceful movements and beautiful coloration make them a favorite among birdwatchers.

10. White Ibis (Eudocimus albus)

• Size: 2-3 feet (61-91 cm)
• Weight: 1.5-3 lbs (0.7-1.4 kg)
• Lifespan: 10-15 years in the wild
• Diet: Insects, crustaceans, and small fish

The White Ibis is a long-necked wading bird known for its striking white plumage and curved bill. Found in wetlands, marshes, and coastal areas across the Americas, these birds are often seen foraging in shallow water for food.

White Ibises small birds primarily feed on insects, crustaceans, and small fish. Their long necks and bills allow them to probe into mud and water to find prey. They are social birds, often seen in flocks, and their striking appearance makes them popular among birdwatchers.

11. Tricolored Heron (Egretta tricolor)

• Size: 2-3 feet (61-91 cm)
• Weight: 1-2.5 lbs (0.5-1.1 kg)
• Lifespan: 10-15 years in the wild
• Diet: Fish, amphibians, and crustaceans

The Tricolored Heron is a beautiful wading bird with long legs and a long neck. Known for its distinctive three-color plumage—blue-gray, white, and chestnut—this heron is often found in marshes and coastal areas of the Americas.

These Tricolored Herons small birds with long necks primarily feed on fish and amphibians, using their sharp beaks to catch prey while wading in shallow water. They are skilled hunters and often hunt alone or in small groups. Their striking colors and graceful movements make them a joy to observe.

12. Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)

• Size: 3.3-4.6 feet (1-1.4 m)
• Weight: 4.5-9 lbs (2-4 kg)
• Lifespan: 20-30 years in the wild
• Diet: Algae, crustaceans, and small invertebrates

The Greater Flamingo is one of the most recognizable birds in the world, known for its long neck and bright pink feathers. These birds are often found in shallow waters of lakes and lagoons, where they feed on algae and small crustaceans.

These small birds with long necks have a unique feeding technique, using their specialized bills to filter food from the water. Their vibrant coloration comes from the carotenoids in their diet. Greater Flamingos are social birds and are often seen in large flocks, creating a stunning visual display.

Where to Exactly Locate These Birds

If you’re interested in observing these small birds with long necks, here are some prime locations to spot them:

1. Ostrich: Best seen in the savannas and grasslands of Africa, particularly in national parks and reserves like Kruger National Park in South Africa.
2. Emu: Found throughout Australia, particularly in open forests and grasslands. Look for them in national parks like the Grampians or Flinders Ranges.
3. Goliath Heron: Located in wetlands and riverbanks across sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in countries like Zambia and Botswana.
4. Great Egret: Commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and coastal areas across North America, especially in places like the Florida Everglades.
5. Anhinga: Often seen in freshwater lakes and swamps in the southern United States, particularly in the Everglades National Park.
6. Trumpeter Swan: Found in lakes and rivers in North America, particularly in areas like Yellowstone National Park and the northern Great Lakes.
7. Sandhill Crane: Best observed in wetlands and grasslands during migration in North America, especially in places like Nebraska’s Platte River Valley.
8. Southern Cassowary: Look for these birds in the tropical rainforests of New Guinea and northeastern Australia, particularly in protected areas.
9. Little Blue Heron: Commonly found in wetlands and marshes throughout the southeastern United States, particularly in places like the Gulf Coast.
10. White Ibis: Often seen in wetlands and coastal areas of North America, especially in Florida’s marshes and estuaries.
11. Tricolored Heron: Found in coastal marshes and wetlands across the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida’s Everglades.
12. Greater Flamingo: Best located in shallow lagoons and estuaries, particularly in southern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia.

Conclusion

Small birds with long necks are a diverse group that showcases incredible adaptations for survival. From the graceful movements of the Great Egret to the impressive stature of the Goliath Heron, each of these species plays a unique role in its ecosystem. Understanding their characteristics, habitats, and diets enhances our appreciation for these remarkable birds.

Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy observing nature, exploring the habitats of these long-necked birds can be a rewarding experience. So grab your binoculars, head to the nearest wetlands or savanna, and discover the beauty of these incredible avian species!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the name of the birds with long necks?

The bird with a long neck is called a “crane.”

Q2: What bird extends its neck?

The bird that extends its neck is commonly known as a “stork.”

Q3: What bird looks like a heron but is smaller?

The bird resembling a heron but smaller in size is called an “egret.”

Q4: What is a scavenger bird with a long neck?

A scavenger bird with a long neck is typically referred to as a “vulture.”