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Cattle Egret

Bubulcus ibis

Photo by SukanyaDatta
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

This bird is usually pure white. Its gets the orange colouration during breeding season.

Habitat:

Pretty cosmopolitan. Often seen in paddy fields. It is closely associated with large mammals, especially cows. The movement of the large animal dislodges insects which this bird catches easily. I have also seen it remove insects from Cow's eyes...the inter-specific trust is incredible...I would be scared to have that pointed beak anywhere close to my eye. the cow never flinches.

Reference Links:

Cattle Egret

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)
SukanyaDatta
Stevano Puasa These birds had nests very high up in tall trees. and some were brooding ..so, Yes.

Spotted for Missions

Mission
National Geographic's Great Nature Project
Photographed
PublishedApril 23, 2014

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