A migratory and shy species, Purple Herons arrive in April and leave in October, over-wintering south of the Sahara. Of the same size as a Grey Heron, they are much more difficult to come across, preferring to keep themselves hidden in thick reed-beds - although on occasion they can be found in the open in damp meadows. Any hint of disturbance though and they're off! Though they're usually solitary they sometimes migrate in small flocks as can be seen below.
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