Juvenile Black-crowned Night Heron's 'Messy' Molt Amuses Netizens

A recent photograph of a juvenile Black-crowned Night Heron has captured the attention of netizens in Taichung, Taiwan, with many finding the young bird's appearance endearingly "messy" and "cute."

The image, shared by a local resident who initially inquired about the bird's identity, quickly revealed it to be a young Black-crowned Night Heron. Online commenters noted its somewhat disheveled look, attributing it to the bird's ongoing molting process. Some affectionately referred to it as a "sweet potato bird."

Birdwatching enthusiasts explained that 'sweet potato' is a popular nickname in Taiwan for the Black-crowned Night Heron (Malayan Night Heron). The moniker stems from its round, plump physique and its comical waddle, which strongly resembles a sweet potato unearthed from the ground.

Known for its habit of leisurely strolling and foraging on lawns in campuses and parks, the Black-crowned Night Heron also earns nicknames like 'big clumsy bird' or 'dark light bird.' The 'big clumsy bird' label arises because, when startled or threatened, it doesn't immediately fly away. Instead, it freezes, stretching its neck upright and remaining motionless to mimic branches or wood, a defense mechanism that birdwatchers find surprisingly clever despite its seemingly呆萌 (daimeng -呆萌, meaning呆萌) appearance.