Boat-billed Heron
Image: Tommy Andriollo (cc-by)
NameBoat-billed Heron
Common NameBoat-billed Heron
Scientific NameCochlearius cochlearius
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)78
Length (cm)49.5
Weight (g)550
Plumage DetailsAdults have a prominent black cap, white forehead and cheeks, pale grey-blue back and wings, and buff to cinnamon underparts. The large, boat-shaped bill is dark grey to black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, croaking calls, often described as 'quok' or 'wop,' typically uttered at dusk or during flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsmangrove swamps, freshwater swamps, marshes, forested wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from Mexico south through Central America to northern Argentina and southern Brazil.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive broad, boat-shaped bill, large head, dark cap contrasting with white face, nocturnal habits, stocky build
Description
The Boat-billed Heron is a stocky, medium-sized heron characterized by its disproportionately large, broad, and flattened bill. This nocturnal bird typically perches in trees overhanging water, waiting to ambush prey.
