The Purple Heron [Ardea purpurea] at BWF.

 

FACT FILE

The Purple Heron is the most colourful large heron at Botolan Wildlife Farm, with a distinctive snake-like neck which is usually held in a prominent kink. Its colourful plumage actually provides excellent camouflage among the reeds.

Purple Herons feed mainly on fish, but will also eat insects, amphibians, and occasionally shellfish, small mammals, reptiles and even small birds.

Purple Herons are shy and solitary hunters, and appear to hunt mostly at night continuing into the early morning. They don't often wade in deep water and prefer to stand-and-wait in cover, staying motionless for long periods in shallow water or perched on low dense trees and bushes.

Their slim bills are large and strong enough to kill even large snakes. Their long necks give them a long and powerful reach.