[223]. Bubulcus coromandus: The Cattle Egret. (F. 1562), (J. 929), (+IV.)
A pure white bird with a yellow bill and black legs. In the breeding season some yellow plumes grow from the back of the head.
This is a sociable species. These birds frequently accompany cattle, which serve as efficient beaters. The quadrupeds put up grasshoppers, etc., which the egrets seize. The birds sometimes perch on the backs of cattle.
There are three larger species of egret which are also white; these belong to the genus Herodias, but these are scarcely common birds. A large white egret with the bill black is one of these species. (Illus. B. D., p. 240.)
[224]. Ardeola grayi: The Pond Heron. This is the ubiquitous Paddy Bird. (F. 1565), (J. 930), (+IV.)
This bird, which may be seen squatting at the margin of every tank and every village pond, looks greenish brown—much the colour of its muddy surroundings. But startle it and it opens out milk-white wings on which it flies away with steady flappings. It is impossible to mistake a paddy bird. It sits all brown and flies all white. Close inspection shows that every feather has the shaft of a colour different from the web. (Illus. B. D., p. 236; also B. P., p. 114; also B. P., p. 178.)
[225]. Nycticorax griseus: The Night Heron. (F. 1568), (J. 937), (V.)
A large dusky-coloured bird which is seen flapping its way along about sunset with loud raucous cries that sound like “wāk” is the night heron.
The head, nape, back, and shoulders are black. Forehead, cheek, breast, and lower parts white. Remainder of plumage ashy grey. Eyes bright red. Some of the feathers of the back of the neck are white and are lengthened to form plumes. (Illus. B. D., pp. 232 and 238.)
[225a]. Butorides javanica: The Little Green Heron. (F. 1567), (J. 931), (+IV.)