45-52 cm, sexes similar. Present throughout the year. It reproduces in some lagoon groves associated with other species of herons. Nesting has been established since 2008 and the species has increased significantly. It searches for food in meadows, grassy vineyards, in cultivated fields and areas where the drainage network is being worked on. Finally also, close to animals kept in the wild, especially at Isola della Cona.