Black-crowned Night Heron
Image: Cricket Raspet (cc-by)
NameBlack-crowned Night Heron
Common NameBlack-crowned Night Heron
Scientific NameNycticorax nycticorax
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black cap and back, pale gray wings, and white underparts. They possess striking red eyes and a stout, greenish-yellow bill with a dark tip. Legs are yellow, turning reddish during breeding season.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, harsh 'quark' or 'kwok' call, often given in flight, especially at dusk or during the night.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, swamps, lakes, ponds, coastal areas, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeGlobally widespread, found across much of the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, typically in temperate and tropical regions.
Identifying Featuresblack cap and back, red eyes, stout body, short neck, yellow legs, nocturnal behavior, greenish-yellow bill
Description
This medium-sized heron is primarily nocturnal, often seen resting in trees or dense vegetation during the day. It has a stocky build with a relatively short neck and legs compared to other herons, and is known for its distinctive black cap and back.
