Descriptive List of the Common Birds 
A large white egret with the bill black is one 
of these species. (Illus. B. D., p. 240.) 
224. Ardeola grayi: ‘The Pond Heron. 
This is the ubiquitous Paddy Bird. (F. 1565), 
(J. 930), (+1V.) 
This bird, which may be seen squatting at 
the margin of every tank and every village 
pond, looks greenish brown—much the colour 
of its muddy surroundings. But startle it and 
it opens out milk-white wings on which it flies 
away with steady flappings. It is impossible 
to mistake a paddy bird. It sits all brown and 
flies all white. Close inspection shows that 
every feather has the shaft of a colour different 
from the web. (Illus. B. D., p. 236; also 
B. P., p. 1143 also B. B., p. 178.) 
225. Nycticorax griseus: The Night Heron. 
(F. 1568), J. 937), (V-) 
A large dusky-coloured bird which is seen 
flapping its way along about sunset with loud 
raucous cries that sound like “wak” is the 
night heron. 
The head, nape, back, and shoulders are 
black. Forehead, cheek, breast, and lower 
parts white. Remainder of plumage ashy 
grey. Eyes bright red. Some of the feathers 
of the back of the neck are white and are 
223 
