First sighting record of Western Reef-Heron Egretta gularis (Bosc, 1792) (Aves: Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) from Jammu & Kashmir, India

Abstract

We report the first documented sighting of a Western Reef-Heron (Egretta gularis) in Jammu & Kashmir, India. The Western Reef-Heron, a medium-sized heron, was previously considered a subspecies of the Little Egret. The sighting occurred on June 18, 2023, at Wular Lake, expanding the avifaunal diversity of the region. The heron remained in the vicinity of the lake for several days, allowing for detailed observation and study. This particular bird belonged to the dark morph category, displaying distinct characteristics. The Western Reef-Heron is primarily found in coastal regions across Africa but has also been observed as a vagrant species in southern Europe. The sighting at Wular Lake contributes to our understanding of the avian population and ecological dynamics in the region. Wular Lake, situated in the Kashmir valley, is one of Asia's largest wetlands and plays a crucial role in water flow regulation, agriculture, and fisheries. It has recently become a hotspot for diverse bird species, including several notable first-time sightings in Jammu & Kashmir