Glossy iridescence obvious in breeding season

Widespread in warm regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and warmer parts of the Americas. Migratory, nests colonially in trees, often with herons. Gregarious when feeding in marshy wetlands. Breeding adults have reddish-brown bodies and shiny bottle-green wings. Non-breeders and juveniles have duller bodies. This is a second year juvenile or a non-breeding adult. Breeds October to February in Queensland.

Photo: Derek Boddington