BirdUp · Species

Javan Pond Heron

Ardeola speciosa(Horsfield, 1821)

Least ConcernNative

Order: PELECANIFORMES
Family: Ardeidae
Genus: Ardeola

Conservation: Least Concern
Commonness: Local
Best seen: Year-round

01 · Identification

How to tell it apart

The Javan pond heron is a wading bird of the heron family, found in shallow fresh and salt-water wetlands in Southeast Asia. Its diet comprises insects, fish, and crabs.

Description · wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0

Field specs

Wingspan: 80 cm

Measurements · avonet · CC BY 4.0

Field tips

behaviour

Maintains a characteristic low-slung, hunched posture while stationary, making it appear much more compact than most other herons.

flight

In flight, the bird reveals surprisingly bright, entirely white wings and tail, which contrast heavily with its otherwise streaked or dark body.

plumage

Breeding adults show a distinctive golden-buff head and neck that contrasts sharply with a dark, slaty-black back and mantle.
In non-breeding plumage, note the heavily camouflaged brown body covered in white streaks and a yellow bill with a conspicuous black tip.

size_and_shape

Often appears stocky and short-necked when perched, with a heavy-chested silhouette and a relatively thick, sturdy bill.

voice

Usually silent, but emits a harsh, croaking 'kwar' or 'pe-ok' call when suddenly flushed or disturbed.

02 · Where

Where to find it

Breeding range: Thailand through Philippines, Sulawesi region and Lesser Sundas
Non-breeding range: Rare vagrant to Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, and the coast of Northern Territory and Western Australia.

03 · When

When to look

Months this species is recorded across its Australian range.

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