A medium-sized pond heron found in Southeast Asia, characterized by its cryptic streaky brown non-breeding plumage and a beautiful golden-buff, white, and maroon breeding plumage.
Where to spot
Freshwater ponds, marshes, rice paddies, and wetlands throughout Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, etc.).
How to spot
In non-breeding, look for its streaky brown body. In breeding, identify by its golden-buff head and chest, white belly, and maroon back. Often seen patiently foraging in shallow water.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed during daylight hours, especially in breeding season (May-August) when plumage is most vibrant.
Where to spot
Freshwater ponds, marshes, rice paddies, and wetlands throughout Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, etc.).
How to spot
In non-breeding, look for its streaky brown body. In breeding, identify by its golden-buff head and chest, white belly, and maroon back. Often seen patiently foraging in shallow water.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed during daylight hours, especially in breeding season (May-August) when plumage is most vibrant.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite its name, the Javan Pond Heron is not exclusive to Java but is found across a broad range of Southeast Asian islands and mainland.
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