Indian pond heron

The Indian pond heron or paddybird is a small heron. It is of Old World origins, breeding in southern Iran and east to the Indian subcontinent, Burma, and Sri Lanka. They are widespread and common but can be easily missed when they stalk prey at the edge of small water-bodies or even when they roost close to human habitations.

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Distribution

Region

South Asia and adjacent West Asia

Typical Environment

Inhabits a wide range of lowland wetlands including village ponds, rice fields, marshes, canals, lakes, and mangroves. It also frequents urban parks and temple tanks, often roosting in trees near water. The species tolerates human presence and modified landscapes, thriving in agricultural mosaics. It is found from southern Iran through Pakistan and across the Indian subcontinent to Sri Lanka and western Myanmar.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size40–47 cm

Wing Span70–90 cm

Male Weight0.3 kg

Female Weight0.28 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Often called the paddybird, it blends remarkably well into its surroundings when perched, but flashes pure white wings when it takes flight. It commonly feeds along the edges of ponds, rice paddies, and urban water bodies, showing little fear of humans. During breeding, the head and neck become richer buff with fine plumes, and the legs may flush reddish.

Gallery

When flushed the contrasting white wings flash into view

Usually hunched, they appear short necked

Pair at nest in Kolkata, West Bengal, India

Indian pond heron with bright red legs in breeding season

Large numbers in a drying pond

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and patient

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flight over water

Social Behavior

Typically feeds alone or in loose proximity to other waders, standing motionless before spearing prey. Nests colonially, often with other herons, egrets, and cormorants in trees near water. Builds a flimsy stick platform; both sexes incubate and care for 3–5 eggs during the breeding season.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Generally quiet; gives harsh, nasal squawks when flushed or at the colony. At roosts and nests it utters raspy croaks and grating calls, especially at dusk.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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