ebirdStriated Heron (Butorides striata) – This graceful little heron blends elegantly into the peaceful surroundings of the ornithological garden at the Au Bois Vert lodge in Ivato.
What does it look like?
The Striated Heron is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 40 cm. It is distinguished by its bluish-grey plumage on the back and wings, its white throat adorned with fine brown streaks, its bright yellow eyes, and its greenish-yellow legs.
Its song or cry
The Striated Heron emits a harsh, short call — a rough "quack" that it often makes in flight. This distinctive sound makes it easy to detect its presence, especially in the quiet of the ornithological garden.
An anecdote or fun fact
The Striated Heron often hunts in pairs in shallow ponds: one creates intriguing shadows to startle the fish, while the other takes advantage of the chaos to catch its prey!
Where and when to see it in our garden?
The best time to observe the Striated Heron is in the morning or late afternoon, near the water bodies of the Au Bois Vert hotel’s ornithological garden. It likes to settle at the water’s edge, lying in wait for insects, small fish, and amphibians.
Why does he love our garden?
The Striated Heron is particularly fond of our garden for several reasons: the still water of the pond, the dense vegetation that provides good hiding spots, and the tranquility of the area, far from any disturbances. The peaceful setting of our lodge, hotel, and restaurant suits it perfectly.
Tips for observing it
Find a quiet, shady spot, stay still, and watch in silence. The Striated Heron is often detected by its harsh call, just before it reveals itself, gliding gently along the water’s edge. Binoculars will be a real asset.
