Sunbittern
Image: Marco Pecoraro (cc-by-nc)
NameSunbittern
Common NameSunbittern
Scientific NameEurypyga helias
FamilyEurypygidae
Wingspan (cm)50.5
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is intricately patterned with fine black, grey, brown, and white barring and vermiculations across the body, providing excellent camouflage. The head is dark with a prominent white stripe above and below the eye. The most striking feature, usually hidden, is the large, rufous, black, and yellow 'sunburst' pattern on the primary and secondary wing feathers, visible when spread.
Vocalization / CallSunbitterns produce a variety of soft, whistling, trilling, and hissing calls. Their vocalizations are often described as a soft, mournful whistle or a series of high-pitched, somewhat reedy notes.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstropical forest, rivers, streams, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Neotropics, its range extends from southern Mexico through Central America and into South America, east of the Andes, reaching as far south as northern Argentina and southern Brazil.
Identifying Featuresintricate barred and vermiculated plumage, dark head with prominent white facial stripes, long, slender bill, striking 'sunburst' wing pattern (when displayed), wading behavior in shallow water
Description
The Sunbittern is a medium-sized, highly cryptic bird found in tropical forests near water. It moves slowly and deliberately, often freezing to blend into its surroundings, and is known for its striking 'sunburst' wing pattern displayed during threat or courtship. This species is typically solitary and forages along the edges of streams and rivers.
