Intermediate Egret

1. Bird Name
The bird that this profile will focus on is known as the Intermediate Egret. In scientific or Latin terms, it is referred to as “Ardea intermedia”.

2. Appearance
The Intermediate Egret is a pure, stark white bird. It is an elegant wader that sports a medium-length, broad, yellow beak, and its neck, like many of its relatives, is long and slender. With a relatively short tail, its most noticeable features are its rich coloration and the plumage it gets during the breeding period which forms a mane on the back of its head and neck. The legs of the Intermediate Egret are blackish and they’ve got yellow or golden eyes. Both males and females look similar, proving a lack of sexual dimorphism.

3. Size
Intermediate Egrets have an average body length varying between 56 to 72 cm (22-28 inches), and a wingspan of around 115 to 130 cm (45-51 inches). They usually weigh from 400 to 500 grams.

4. Habitat and Distribution
Intermediate Egrets are found across Asia, Africa, Australia, and parts of Europe, particularly in Southern Spain and Southern Portugal. They prefer a habitat of wetlands, such as marshes, lakes, rivers, and their surrounding areas. They are a common sight in both freshwater and brackish water environments.

5. Interesting Facts
An intriguing fact about the Intermediate Egret is that they have the ability to adapt their hunting methods according to their surroundings. This includes patiently waiting and pouncing on their prey, or actively hunting by stirring the water with their feet to flush out potential meals. Culturally, due to their stunning appearance, they often feature in artwork and designs across their range.

6. Diet
Intermediate Egrets are carnivorous birds and their diet mainly consists of fish, frogs, and various aquatic and terrestrial insects. They also eat other invertebrates such as crustaceans and mollusks.

7. Behavior and Sounds
Intermediate Egrets are solitary birds and prefer their space while feeding. Their nests are usually in colonies, mixed in with other species of heron. They are known for their “corark” or “arrk” sound, usually made when they are disturbed or during the breeding season.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Intermediate Egret is classified under the category of “Least Concern”, as the bird is not considered under immediate threat.

9. Lifespan
In the wild, Intermediate Egrets have an average lifespan of 15 years, while under captivity, they can live for up to 20 years.

10. Additional Notes
In Hindi, the Intermediate Egret is called “Madhya kos”, and in Spanish, they’re known as “Garceta intermedia”. They play a crucial role in controlling the populations of their prey. Their interaction with humans is minimal, but they are often found fishing in and around bodies of water in rural human settlements. In some Asian countries, they are disturbed by the capture for their beautiful nuptial plumes.