Lake Gwelup Nankeen Night Heron

These birds frequent many of the lakes around Perth. Despite the name, Nankeen Night Heron, they are often seen during the day. This one held its pose while I zoomed in for a close-up. Thanks Heron.

Expert skulker the night heron

Nankeen night heron

These night herons are so well camouflaged among the paperbarks it is hard to spot them. There were several today on the BirdLife walk around Lake Joondalup. Despite the name, night herons are found during the day when they hunt for frogs, insects and fish.

Nankeen night heron will eat goldfish

This photo was sent to me of a beautiful Nankeen night heron in breeding plummage, taken in a Melbourne garden. What attracts it to come into gardens you may wonder? Why a supply of tasty goldfish.

In Perth these birds are normally found around lakes, e.g. Lake Joondalup, or the Swan River, where they come out to feed in the evening. the Birds in Backyards website has more information.