Eastern Cattle Egret

The Eastern Cattle Egret, Bubulcus coromandus, is a member of the heron family Ardeidae, displaying a stout build with a wingspan ranging from 88 to 96 centimeters. It is characterized by its white plumage, which during the breeding season is adorned with buff plumes, and a yellow bill and greyish-yellow legs. The breeding adult is distinguished by its golden nuptial plumes and the buff coloration extending to the cheeks and throat.

Identification Tips

This species can be identified by its relatively short, thick neck, sturdy bill, and hunched posture. The non-breeding adult is predominantly white with a yellow bill. During breeding, the buff on the head extends to the cheeks and throat, and the plumes take on a more golden hue. The bill and tarsus are longer than those of its western counterpart, and it is generally smaller with shorter wings.

Habitat

The Eastern Cattle Egret favors drier and open habitats more than other heron species. Its preferred environments include seasonally inundated grasslands, pastures, farmlands, wetlands, and rice paddies.

Distribution

Native to southern and eastern Asia, and Australasia, this species has expanded its range remarkably, partly due to its symbiotic relationship with cattle and other large grazing mammals. It has established itself in the north and east of Australia and regularly visits New Zealand.

Behaviour

The Eastern Cattle Egret is often seen in the company of cattle or other large mammals, taking advantage of the insects and small vertebrates these animals disturb. Some populations are migratory, while others disperse after breeding, showing a remarkable adaptability in their movements.

Song & Calls

At the breeding colony, the Eastern Cattle Egret emits a quiet, throaty "rick-rack" call but is otherwise not a vocal species.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in colonies, often near water and with other wading birds. The nest is a platform of sticks in trees or shrubs. The breeding season varies by region, with nesting in northern India beginning with the monsoons in May, and in Australia from November to early January.

Diet and Feeding

The diet is varied, predominantly consisting of insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, and flies, as well as spiders, frogs, and earthworms. It has been known to forage in unusual settings, including along railway lines and in seabird colonies, preying on eggs and chicks.

Conservation status

The Eastern Cattle Egret benefits from its association with human agriculture and has an expanding range. However, it can pose a hazard to aircraft and has been implicated in the spread of tick-borne diseases among livestock.