Ardeola

:"For the ornithological journal, see "Ardeola (journal).Taxobox
name = "Ardeola"


image_width = 200px
image_caption = Indian Pond Heron
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Aves
ordo = Ciconiiformes
familia = Ardeidae
genus = " Ardeola "
genus_authority = Boie, 1822
subdivision_ranks = Species
subdivision =
* "A. grayii"
* "A. ralloides"
* "A. bacchus"
* "A. speciosa"
* "A. idae"
* "A. rufiventris"

"Ardeola" is a genus of small herons, typically 40-50 cm long with 80-100 cm wingspan. Most breed in the tropical Old World, but the migratory Squacco Heron occurs in southern Europe and the Middle East and winters in Africa. These pond herons are stocky species with a short neck, short thick bill, typically buff or brownish back, and coloured or streaked foreneck and breast. In summer, adults may have long neck feathers. "Ardeola" herons are transformed in flight, looking very white due to the brilliant white wings.

Their breeding habitat is marshy wetlands. They nest in small colonies, often with other wading birds, usually on platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs. 2-5 eggs are laid.

These herons feed on insects, fish and amphibians. They are often found on small ponds giving rise to the English name shared by most of the species

pecies

* Indian Pond Heron, "Ardeola grayii"
* Squacco Heron, "Ardeola ralloides"
* Chinese Pond Heron, "Ardeola bacchus"
* Javan Pond Heron, "Ardeola speciosa"
* Madagascar Pond Heron, "Ardeola idae"
* Rufous-bellied Heron, "Ardeola rufiventris"