Javan Pond Heron
(Ardeola speciosa)

Identification : This bird is a waterbird from the heron family, found in wetlands across Southeast Asia. It feeds on insects, fish, and crabs. It typically measures about 45 cm in length, with white wings, a yellow bill with a black tip, and yellow eyes and legs.

During the breeding season, its plumage is generally yellowish-gray (slate-like) and white: the head and neck are yellow, the back is dark grayish, and the chest is yellow.

Outside the breeding season, it appears reddish-brown with white streaks and spots. In non-breeding plumage, it closely resembles the Chinese Pond Heron and Indian Pond Heron, making it difficult to distinguish.

It breeds from June to September and is a migratory bird in Thailand.

It is a protected species under Thailands Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act B.E. 2535 (1992), which prohibits hunting, trading, importing, exporting, possession, breeding, or disturbing their nests, including eggs and remains.

Despite being widely distributed, it is legally protected.