The little heron (Butorides atricapilla javanica) is a small, camouflaged wader frequenting water edges of the Indian Subcontinent. This subspecies is recognized by its crouched, short-necked profile and ashy-gray neck. Its plumage features a glossy black cap, a greenish-black mantle, and pale-edged wing feathers creating a "striated" appearance. This heron is 35-48 cm long, weighs 130-250 g, with a 52-60 cm wingspan. These herons are solitary, often standing motionless on overhanging branches. They are among the few bird species known to use tool-like bait, dropping insects or feathers onto the water to lure fish within range of their sharp bills.