Names of animals are fascinating, especially those of birds. There is a heron that lives in Argentina. It has a beautiful plumage, tan and black with orange and white patterning, the colours of dried grasses waving in the wind.  A Tiger like Heron, called the  Rufescent Tiger-heron.

As the heron stalks through its marshland home it is easy to spot in the open but when the bird is amongst the reeds and sedges, it is camouflaged perfectly.

 

When it flies it shows its chequered markings superbly.  It is no wonder that so many birdwatchers visit South America to see birds as magnificent as the Rufescent Tiger Heron.

These photographs are of Juveniles.  Often in nature it is the juveniles or females that are better camouflaged. The reasons being that juveniles of most species are less equipped to look after and defend themselves, they need to hide more often. It is usual for females to incubate eggs and remain hidden whilst on the nest.

One can also understand why it has ‘Tiger‘ in its name.

 

 

Adults will sometimes adopt other strategies.

 

This adult Rufescent Tiger-heron is quite differently plumaged, with rich chestnut and white stripes down its throat.  For adults and especially males, plumage and colouration is  more connected with the need to display to females or threaten other males.

Many herons and egrets also stand motionless in reeds to mimic the vertical lines and shapes of the marsh vegetation. Camouflage also helps an animal catch prey, much like the Tiger.

It’s a born hunter, a tiger like heron.