Boat-billed Heron
NameBoat-billed Heron
Common NameBoat-billed Heron
Scientific NameCochlearius cochlearius
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)49
Weight (g)550
Plumage DetailsAdults have a prominent black cap and crest, a pale gray face, black back, and rufous underparts. Juveniles, like the one pictured, are mostly rufous-brown with a dark cap and lack the strong contrast of adults.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of croaks, grunts, and clacking sounds, often heard during its nocturnal activity.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsmangrove swamps, freshwater swamps, marshes, forested wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America and into northern Argentina.
Identifying Featuresbroad, boat-shaped bill, nocturnal activity, black cap and crest (adults), rufous-brown plumage (juveniles), large eyes
Description
The Boat-billed Heron is a distinctive, nocturnal heron characterized by its unusually broad, scoop-like bill. It typically hunts in shallow waters, often standing still or slowly stalking its prey, primarily at night.
