| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | Length about 46–56 cm; wingspan 88–96 cm; weight ~400–500 g. Medium-sized egret with mostly white plumage, yellow bill, and during breeding season, golden plumes on head, chest, and back.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Resident in South and Southeast Asia. Northern populations may be partially migratory.
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| Migrate to: | Some northern populations move southward during winter, but most are sedentary or show short local movements.
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| Breeding season: | Typically June to September, coinciding with monsoon and peak insect availability. Forms colonies for nesting.
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| Breed in: | Nests in trees or shrubs, often in colonies with other waterbirds. Nest is a platform of sticks. Clutch size is usually 3–5 eggs. Both parents incubate and feed the chicks.
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| Habitat: | Found in wetlands, flooded fields, grasslands, and areas near livestock. Frequently observed near grazing cattle or water buffalo, feeding on insects disturbed by the animals.
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| Diet: | Feeds mainly on insects, particularly grasshoppers, crickets, and other small invertebrates. Also consumes small amphibians, reptiles, and occasionally fish. Often forages in association with livestock.
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