A very widespread small heron, common across much of the globe. Small size and overall gray color separates from most other herons and bitterns. Look for contrasting dark cap, distinct pale edges on wing feathers, and white and rufous stripes on front of neck. Juvenile streakier below than adult. Similar to North America’s Green Heron but note mostly gray neck with restricted rufous. Normally solitary, found standing quietly around wetland habitats such as marshes, agricultural fields, rivers, and lakes.