Pond Heron

Indian Pond Heron

Indian Pond Heron is another common member of the family of herons - in fact, it is not uncommon to see these in the cities either. It is one of the most familiar of water birds, even though it is not as famous as other, more attractive, birds.

Brownish in colour, it usually walks around the edge of water, waiting patiently for its prey. Even though it wades into the water now and then, most of its prey is caught while waiting on the edge. Rather surprisingly, its diet includes frogs in addition to fish, crabs and insects :)

Easy to identify, it has white spots on the wings when flying. Its scientific name is Ardeola Grayii.