Herons usually spear their prey and actually hunt for food, but the broad bill of this heron enables it to scoop up water containing food, so it doesn’t need to hunt. Some biologists actually think the broad-billed heron should have its own family because of its unique appearance and way of life.

It nests in trees ranging from close to the water to up to 10 metres above ground in trees. Broad-billed herons differ from other herons by pairing off before they arrive at the nesting site. Their courting ritual includes a repertoire of sounds such as “bill clacking” and songs.