Habitat: Breeds in colonies in extensive, shallow marshy lakes with reed beds. Nests in the reeds.

Appearance: Widespread summer visitor in Europe. In Belgium and the Netherlands, a rare breeding bird – migratory + winter visitor in very small numbers.

Breeding season: May – August, colonies in reeds, 4 – 5 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 70 – 90 cm, wingspan 120 – 138 cm, weight 525 – 1220 grams, age 25 years.

Food: Fish, small aquatic and terrestrial animals.