Striated Heron (Butorides striata)

Often known as the mangrove heron, small heron or green-backed heron, the striated heron (Butorides striata) is a small heron, about 44 cm long. Most of the striated herons are non-migratory and are noted for some interesting behavioral characteristics.

Small herons are widely distributed and are common in most parts of the globe. The striated heron is. It is differentiated by its small size and overall gray color from most other large herons and tiny herons. Note the contrasting black top, the white and reddish brown lines on the front of the neck and the visible pale edges on the wing cover. 

Sub-adults have markings that stretch further than adult birds toward the belly. It's similar to North America's little green heron, but the difference is that it's mostly gray with a slight amount of reddish brown on the collar. Typically it is a single operation, seen silently standing around wetland-type ecosystems such as herbaceous swamps, fields, rivers and lakes.