A small, shy small heron found in Asian wetlands, known for its dull yellow/buff plumage, black crown (male), and streaked markings (female/juvenile), living in reeds and feeding on small aquatic life like fish, frogs, and insects.

Although common throughout West Malaysia, being shy and well camouflaged its is not easily seen. More often seen flying across its habitat, like paddy fields and other natural and manmade wetlands.

In Seberang Perai it is the most common bittern sighted; it nests on paddy stalks and reeds and long grasses and other water plants.