Ardeiformes

Ardeiformes is an order of birds in the clade known as Pelecanae. Traditionally, these birds were included in Ciconiiformes or Pelecaniformes. It is not clear whether the herons are related to the ibises and spoonbills or not, if they are, then the order Plataleiformes will take priority.

Other names
Herons, ibises and spoonbills.

Description
They have long legs and powerful bills and mainly live in freshwater habitats. Most have straight bills, but the ibises have decurved bills, while spoonbills are easily recognisable because their bills have rounded and flattened tips. Herons and egrets retract their necks in flight. The long legs trailing behind are also a noticeable feature in flight.

Similar species
They are related to the storks and other birds in Pelecaniformes.

Behaviour
Most are solitary hunters, stalking with stealth and patience and attacking with lightning speed.

Diet
All birds in this order are carnivorous and the majority feed on fish, frogs or other amphibians, and insects. Some even eat small birds.