Cattle Egret in-flight can be spotted in the paddy fields, and water bodies. And true to their name – near the cattle, especially the buffaloes very commonly across India. In flight, they look pretty with their pristine white wings flapping in a rhythm as their yellow beak points toward the direction of flight, sailing across short distances.
Cattle Egret Bird In-flight
This Cattle Egret in-flight was captured over the paddy fields of Taleigao, Goa.
White-colored objects photography needs good natural light. In this case, the natural light is a blessing in disguise. Contributing to get a good shot of the bird in-flight. The bird is often seen in the company of other egrets like the little egret, intermediate-egret, and great egret. And pond herons, purple herons, grey herons, White Ibis, Wooly-necked-storks, etc water birds. Sharing the space in the water bodies. Particularly so during the summers as the commonly seen water bodies shrink and dry out.
About the bird
It (Bubulcus ibis) is a small, white heron that is found in the tropics, subtropics, and warm-temperate zones. They are about 46–56 cm (18–22 in) long and weigh 270–512 g (91⁄2–18 oz). The bird has a relatively short, thick neck, a sturdy bill, and a hunched posture.
They are gregarious birds and often form large flocks. Found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, pastures, wetlands, and agricultural fields, they are commonly seen following large grazing animals, such as cattle. It gets its name from this habit of following cattle. The birds benefit from the presence of the cattle, which stir up insects and other small prey from the ground during grazing. The bird then swoops in and catches the prey with their long, sharp bills.
Recommend you read the following posts on birds & bird photography in India.
Birds in my Garden at Gurgaon – Beauty of Nature
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary – Places to visit in Rajasthan
Birds of Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh – Bird Photography
The bird is so attractive and beautiful. Loved to watch the bird. Wish to see it once in front of my eyes.
I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.