Yellow Bittern / Kakkak
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Yellow Bittern / Kakkak
Ixobrychus sinensis
Native Species
The Yellow Bittern is the only native bird still commonly found on our island. Chamorus call them "kakkak" because of the noise they make. They can be found on islands throughout Micronesia, as well as in Asia. These medium-sized, pale yellow birds with black wing stripes are fairly common in Guam's southern savanna, northern forests, and even urban areas such as downtown Agana. They are excellent hunters and eat mostly geckos, snails, skinks and insects. They perch on coconut palms or on the ground and extend their head and neck to snatch passing prey.
Kakkak are not strong fliers. When in flight, their legs trail behind their bodies and their necks are folded into an S-shape. They nest in a variety of locations, such as in low shrubs on offshore islets, in trees, and among grasses at freshwater wetlands. Three or four white eggs are laid. Once the eggs hatch, both parents feed digested food to the babies.
Kakkak are masters of disguise. They use their colors to blend into the background in an attempt to hide from predators or if they sense any immediate danger from humans. It is not unusual to find kakkak nesting or perching along sidewalks, office buildings and park areas in downtown Agana. If you find young kakkak that appear to be lost, hurt or abandoned, leave them alone. They may only be waiting for their parents to return from hunting for food and are merely using their colors to protect themselves.
Guam Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 9/27/2005
