Eastern Cattle-Egret
NameEastern Cattle-Egret
Common NameEastern Cattle-Egret
Scientific NameBubulcus coromandus
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)92.5
Length (cm)51
Weight (g)390
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the body is primarily white, with buffy-orange plumes on the crown, nape, breast, and back. The bill is yellow to orange with a reddish base, and legs are reddish. Non-breeding birds are entirely white with a yellow bill and greenish-yellow legs.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but may emit low, hoarse croaks, grunts, or 'rick-rack' calls, especially around nesting colonies.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Eastern Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australasia, including parts of India, China, Japan, Indonesia, and Australia.
Identifying FeaturesWhite body with buffy-orange breeding plumage on head, neck, and back, Orange bill with reddish base during breeding season, Often seen foraging near cattle and other large grazing animals, Short, thick neck and relatively short, stout bill
Description
The Eastern Cattle-Egret is a medium-sized heron, typically seen foraging in grasslands and agricultural fields, often alongside livestock. During breeding season, it develops distinctive buffy-orange plumage on its head, neck, and back, contrasting with its otherwise white body.
