Squacco Heron

1 week ago door Henk Spuijbroek

Points: 75

Spotted

The Squacco Heron is a small, stocky heron with drab, buffy-brown plumage when at rest, but revealing striking white wings in flight. It inhabits densely vegetated freshwater wetlands.

Where to spot

Found across southern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, primarily in freshwater marshes, rice paddies, and densely vegetated edges of lakes and rivers.

How to spot

Best identified by its ability to 'disappear' when at rest due to its streaky brown back, and then dramatically flash its white wings upon flight. Look for it lurking among vegetation at the water's edge, often standing motionless waiting for prey.

When to spot

Migratory in its northern range (Europe, Middle East), arriving in spring for breeding. Resident in Africa. Most active during daylight hours, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Where to spot

Found across southern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, primarily in freshwater marshes, rice paddies, and densely vegetated edges of lakes and rivers.

How to spot

When to spot

Migratory in its northern range (Europe, Middle East), arriving in spring for breeding. Resident in Africa. Most active during daylight hours, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Credits: f_snarfel

The Squacco Heron's camouflage is so effective that when it perches motionless amongst reeds, it becomes almost invisible, only revealing its brilliant white wings when it takes flight, creating a sudden flash of white against the dull background.

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