The Chinese egret or Swinhoe's egret is a threatened species of egret from east Asia, first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1860.
Region
East and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds colonially on small offshore islets and coastal headlands around the Yellow Sea, including northeast China, Korea, and the Russian Far East. During non-breeding it migrates south along the coast to Southeast Asia, with major wintering concentrations in the Philippines, Borneo, and along coasts of Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. It favors intertidal mudflats, sandflats, estuaries, mangroves, and sheltered bays. It also uses fishponds, saltpans, and flooded rice fields near the coast. Inland occurrence is uncommon and usually close to tidal wetlands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Swinhoe's egret, this scarce coastal heron breeds on a few small islands in Northeast Asia and winters across Southeast Asia. It is easily confused with the Little Egret but shows a shaggy nuchal crest and luxuriant plumes in breeding season. Habitat loss of intertidal mudflats is the principal threat, and the species is listed as Vulnerable. It often feeds at low tide, using foot-stirring and dashing to flush prey.
Laem Pak Bia, Thailand
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with steady wingbeats
Social Behavior
Nests colonially, often with other herons and egrets, on trees or shrubs on small islands. Courtship includes bill clacking, plume displays, and lifting the crest. Outside breeding it forages singly or in small loose groups and may join mixed-species feeding aggregations. Pairs form seasonally and both sexes help with nest care.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet away from colonies; emits harsh croaks and grating calls at breeding sites. Soft clucks and guttural notes may be heard during foraging and interactions.
