Pacific reef heron (
Egretta sacra), also known as the
eastern reef heron or
eastern reef egret, is a kind of
heron. They are found in many areas of Asia including the oceanic region of
India,
Southeast Asia,
East Asia,
Polynesia, and in
Australia,
Tasmania and
New Zealand.
Pacific reef herons are medium-sized herons, reaching 57 to 66 cm in
length. They have a wingspan of between 90 and 110 cm and reach an
average weight of 400 grams.
The species displays an unusual, non-sexual
dimorphism,
with some members having entirely white plumage and others (the larger
portion) being charcoal-grey. The reason for the colour variation or "
morph", is unknown, though it is most commonly thought to be related to camouflage.
Eastern reef egrets have very short, yellow legs, and the grey
variety's throats and chins are marked by a narrow, white stripe. They
have brown beaks, gold-yellow coloured eyes and the surrounding areas of
their faces are normally of a greenish to yellow cast.
Their food sources are made up predominantly of varieties of ocean-based
fish,
crustaceans and
molluscs.
The species lay clutches of eggs year round in colonies in the
jungle, between palms and mangroves or in cavities of old buildings. Two
to three paled greenish-blue eggs are laid in nests constructed from
branches and blossoms. Males and females share brooding tasks. They
normally have a 28-day brood period. After chicks are hatched, parents
provide approximately 5 weeks of support.