Little Heron – classical hunting pose, calls and more

“An adult Little Heron (Butorides striata javanica) in classical hunting pose for fish prey (above). Note the video which captures this well (below).

“At the end of the video, as the bird flies away, you can hear the classical calls made. I have left these there as the description in some guides is limited.

“These calls are made when frightened (flushed) but, as in this occasion where the bird is comfortable, also made to advertise territory. The calls are sharp and repeated. I have removed background noise and reattached calls below:

“…with a sonogram/waveform below.

“Unexpectedly, while filming, the bird decided to defecate. What was odd was the posture. I am used to seeing this in flight or while panicked/surprised.

“Here the bird seemed to have actually squatted down to do it (videograb image above). I wonder if this is the normal defecation method?

“Note: I was already in this location before the bird arrived at the perch, hence more comfortable with me.”

Dato’ Dr Amar-Singh HSS
Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
2nd June 2017

Location: Tambun, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Habitat: Secondary growth near limestone hills and ex-mining pools (fish farming)