Family Ardeidae, Genus Nycticorax
Black-crowned Night Heron
A medium-sized heron with a stocky build, short neck, and red eyes. It is primarily nocturnal, roosting in trees during the day.
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Plumage & appearance
Adults have a black crown and back, grey wings and tail, and white or pale grey underparts. They feature long white head plumes during breeding season.
Ecological significance
Acts as an opportunistic predator in wetland ecosystems, controlling populations of fish, crustaceans, and insects. It is also an indicator of aquatic environmental health.
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN)
Observation tips
Look for them at dusk or dawn near the edges of freshwater or saltwater wetlands. During the day, they can often be found standing motionless in thick vegetation near water.
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