This is a very shy, small heron that hides in vegetation around the edges of ponds and marshes. It can climb stems of bulrushes, sedges and other wetland plants. It is easiest to see in the early morning or evening, especially on La Digue plateau or certain marshes on Mahé, in marginal vegetation or on lily pads or floating sticks. Because freshwater marshes are threatened by development, this bird is probably very rare, although it is difficult to record exact numbers, because it is so shy. It eats small fish and other water creatures. This is an Asian species; Seychelles is the westernmost place where it breeds, and its only location outside Asia.
Yellow Bitterns feed on insects, fish and amphibians. Like other bitterns, Yellow Bitterns are solitary. They hunt quietly alone using their long powerful bills to grab their prey. They slip easily and climb quietly among the bottom of reedbeds and undergrowth. While they usually hunt from cover, they may also forage over floating vegetation, e.g., water-hyacinth beds. They are more active at dawn and dusk.
Facts:
Scientific Name: Ixobrychus sinensis
Creole name: Makak
Wingspan: 42-47cm.
Population in Seychelles: Around 200 birds.
World Distribution: Asia, some Pacific Islands, Seychelles.
Distribution in Seychelles: Breeds on Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, sometimes seen on other islands.
Habitat: Freshwater marshes.
Nests: In reeds or shrubs 1.5m or less above water.
Eggs: 4, greenish-white.
Diet: Tiny fish, frogs, insects.
Identification: A small long-legged yellowish bird seen around freshwater marshes.
See more
Species Fact Sheet at BirdLife Data Zone
(Photo credit: Dao Nguyen)