An endangered and highly secretive night-heron that breeds in Japan and migrates to Southeast Asia for winter. It has a cryptic brown and buff plumage.
Where to spot
Dense, broadleaf forests and wooded wetlands in Japan (breeding) and Southeast Asia (wintering: Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia).
How to spot
Requires extreme patience. Listen for its distinctive hooting call. Search dense forest undergrowth near streams. Often found perched motionless on the forest floor.
When to spot
Migratory. Best observed during spring (May-June) in breeding grounds when males are calling, or in wintering grounds (November-March). Primarily active at night.
Where to spot
Dense, broadleaf forests and wooded wetlands in Japan (breeding) and Southeast Asia (wintering: Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia).
How to spot
Requires extreme patience. Listen for its distinctive hooting call. Search dense forest undergrowth near streams. Often found perched motionless on the forest floor.
When to spot
Migratory. Best observed during spring (May-June) in breeding grounds when males are calling, or in wintering grounds (November-March). Primarily active at night.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species is incredibly elusive and rarely seen due to its nocturnal habits and preference for dense, undisturbed forest. Its loud, 'ho-ho-ho' call is often the only clue to its presence.
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