Rufous-bellied heron are a rare and extremely sought after species in South Africa and St Lucia and the nearby Isimangaliso Wetlands Park are the most reliable location in the country to search for them.
These small herons favour densely vegetated wetlands with lots of invertebrate prey (especially frogs). They hide in dense areas of vegetation, patiently waiting for prey to reveal themselves before striking.
They often follow large animals such as Buffalo as they wade through wetlands, capitalizing on any disturbed creatures.
These small herons favour densely vegetated wetlands with lots of invertebrate prey (especially frogs). They hide in dense areas of vegetation, patiently waiting for prey to reveal themselves before striking.
They often follow large animals such as Buffalo as they wade through wetlands, capitalizing on any disturbed creatures.
Rufous-bellied heron with its frog prey, Isimangaliso Wetlands Park