The rufous-bellied heron is a species of heron in the genus Ardeola, the pond herons, of the family Ardeidae. It is found in southern Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across floodplains, swamps, and seasonally inundated grasslands in countries such as Angola, Namibia (Zambezi/Caprivi), Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and adjacent areas. Prefers shallow, slow-moving or still waters with dense emergent vegetation like reeds and sedges. Frequently uses temporary pans and ephemeral wetlands formed after heavy rains. Locally nomadic, it tracks the availability of suitable flooded habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small pond heron of southern Africa, the rufous-bellied heron is named for its rich chestnut underparts. It often follows seasonal floods, appearing quickly where shallow water spreads across grasslands. Shy and easily overlooked, it keeps to dense marsh edges and reedbeds. It frequently nests in loose colonies, sometimes alongside other herons.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over water
Social Behavior
Often found singly or in small groups at the edges of reedbeds. Nests in loose colonies in reeds, bushes, or low trees over water, sometimes mixed with other heron species. Builds a small platform of reeds and twigs; both parents share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving harsh croaks and low grunts when flushed. At colonies, emits soft clucks and rasping calls during displays.
