The Malagasy pond heron, also known as the Madagascar pond heron or Madagascar squacco heron, is a species of heron of the family Ardeidae. They breed in Madagascar, Réunion and the Seychelles, and spend the non-breeding season in eastern mainland Africa. The population is estimated to number only 1,300–4,000 adults and the species is considered endangered.
Region
Western Indian Ocean islands and East Africa
Typical Environment
Breeds locally in Madagascar, the Seychelles, and Réunion, using wooded islets, mangroves, and reed-fringed wetlands. After breeding, many individuals disperse to coastal and inland wetlands of East Africa from Kenya to Mozambique and Tanzania. Habitats include shallow freshwater marshes, rice fields, lagoons, and slow-flowing streams, as well as mangrove edges. It favors areas with emergent vegetation and nearby perches for ambush feeding and roosting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Malagasy pond heron breeds on Madagascar, Réunion, and the Seychelles, then disperses to eastern mainland Africa outside the breeding season. Breeding adults turn largely white with striking blue facial skin and ornamental plumes, while non-breeders resemble streaky brown squacco-type herons. It often forages in rice paddies and shallow marshes, making it vulnerable to wetland loss and disturbance. Global numbers are low, and conservation actions focus on protecting breeding colonies and key wetlands.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short, deliberate wingbeats; low over wetlands
Social Behavior
Feeds mostly alone or in loose aggregations but nests colonially, often alongside other herons and egrets. Nests are shallow stick platforms placed in trees, shrubs, or mangroves over water. Pairs form during the breeding season, and both sexes help with nest construction and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet away from colonies, it gives harsh croaks and grating squawks when alarmed. At breeding sites, calls include rasping barks and guttural notes used in displays and territorial interactions.
