STUDIES OF THE PURPLE HERON,PART 2: BEHAVIOUR PATTERNS

Tomlinson, D. N. S. 1974. Studies of the Purple Heron, Part 2: Behaviour patterns. Ostrich 45: 209–223.

Some aspects of Purple Heron Ardea purpurea behaviour have been covered although the study is not complete. Further observations are needed, especially on pair formation, nest building and copulation. Many of the displays described for the Ardeidae are clearly homologous and only slight differences exist. The throat puffing component in the Aggressive Upright Display appears unique to A. purpurea as does the clappering and sudden retraction of the neck in the Stretch Display. Birds raised in captivity provided valuable information on agonistic behaviour patterns and the behaviour of young.