Malayan Night Heron

The Malayan night heron, known scientifically as Gorsachius melanolophus, is a medium-sized heron adorned with a striking plumage. It measures approximately 48 cm in length, with a wingspan reaching around 86 cm. This bird presents a stocky build, complemented by a short, robust beak. The adult's plumage is a rich tapestry of rufous on the neck and breast, with distinctive streaks extending down the center of the neck. The upperparts boast a chestnut hue, intricately vermiculated, while the flight feathers contrast in a darker, blackish tone. A black crown sits atop its head, with a white chin and captivating yellow eyes. The beak is a stark black, and the legs exhibit a subtle greenish coloration. Juveniles display a more muted greyish to rufous plumage, adorned with spots and vermiculations.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Malayan night heron, look for its rufous neck and breast with central streaks, chestnut and vermiculated upperparts, and blackish flight feathers. The black crown, white chin, and yellow eyes are also key features. The bird's short beak and greenish legs can help distinguish it from similar species.

Habitat

The Malayan night heron favors environments such as forests, streams, and marshes, where it can find ample cover and feeding opportunities.

Distribution

This heron's range extends across southern and eastern Asia, with sightings reported in countries including India, Sri Lanka, Brunei, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan. It is also known to appear as a vagrant in Christmas Island and Palau.

Behaviour

Typically solitary in nature, the Malayan night heron roosts in trees and forages in more open areas. Its behavior is characterized by a deep territorial call consisting of "oo" notes, as well as hoarse croaks and a series of "arh" sounds.

Song & Calls

The Malayan night heron's vocal repertoire includes deep "oo" notes used for territorial purposes, along with hoarse croaks and repetitive "arh" calls.

Diet and Feeding

A forager by nature, the Malayan night heron's diet primarily consists of earthworms and frogs, though it will occasionally consume fish. Studies of its pellets have revealed a broader diet that includes reptiles, snails, chilopods, arachnids, crabs, and insects.

Conservation status

The Malayan night heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a global population estimated between 2,000 and 20,000 individuals. The population trend is currently unknown, but the species does not meet the criteria for a vulnerable status, thanks to its large range.