1984/02/01 by NG Mckilligan · 3 citations
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Environmental Science · #Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies #Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy #Wildlife Ecology and Conservation
paper · doi:10.1071/wr9840133
openalex publication_date 1984/02/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
The food of the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis (Ardeola ibis)) in south-eastern Queensland was determined from boluses regurgitated by advanced chicks over 3 breeding seasons and from the stomach contents of 21 adults. They ate a wide range of animals, mainly Acrididae (including Patanga guttulosa (Wlk.) (Austracris guttulosa) and Gastrimargus musicus (F.)), but also skinks, frogs, cicadas and spiders. They fed almost entirely on pastures, preferring moist to dry situations. Most fed in association with cattle, and pecked ticks (Boophilus microplus (Can.)) and flies (Lucilia sericata (Mg.)) directly off animals.