Patna: The Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar has made a significant ornithological discovery with the sighting of a rare White-eared Night Heron, a species previously known only from China and Vietnam. This elusive bird, which sleeps during the day and hunts at night, was first captured on camera traps in November 2016.
The White-eared Night Heron, scientifically known as Oronasa magnifica, is a member of the Ardeidae family. It is a carnivorous bird that primarily feeds on fish and insects. This sighting adds to the growing list of rare and endangered species found within the reserve, highlighting its ecological importance.
The reserve boasts a rich avian diversity, with over 300 bird species recorded, including peacocks, bulbuls, blue-tailed cranes, and various herons. The discovery of the White-eared Night Heron underscores the need for continued conservation efforts to protect this unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.
