“When perched on the trees or resting on the ground, it exhibits none of the grace and elegance of those birds, its short neck resting on the shoulders” – John Gould, Handbook to the Birds of Australia, volume 2
As their name suggests, Nankeen Night Herons (Nycticorax Caledonicus) stalk marches and wetlands during the dark hours of the day, searching for insects, crustaceans, frogs and fish. During daytime these stocky herons can be found roosting, heads hunched onto the shoulders, in the dense canopy of the numerous Swamp Paperbark (Melaleuca rhaphiophylla) trees that surround Lake Herdsman. Although this colony counts between 20-30 individuals, none of those secretive birds leave the thick cover easily, making decent photography a job for the patient.
Apart from its nocturnal character, the cinnamon-brown colour has contributed to the other part of its name, as Nankeen cloth from Nanking resembles the adult bird’s plumage.
Great pictures – especially for such a secretive bird! We have a similar one called a night heron.
Is it the yellow or the black crowned night heron Pam?
We have the black crowned near us, but the I’ve seen the yellow on the west coast of Florida.
Nice photos! Their colouring is different from the night herons I am accustomed to, it’s nice to learn about different varieties.
They really are short compared to the long-legged herons around us.
janet
Indeed Janet – they related to and as short as a Bittern. What kind of herons and egrets are around your place?
Your patience was richly rewarded with an excellent photograph, Maurice!
It was a long but pleasant wait, Dries. I love it when there’s ample time to hang out with one subject, and learn about their movements and behaviour. Very relaxing in the meantime too!