White-eared Night Heron
NameWhite-eared Night Heron
Common NameWhite-eared Night Heron
Scientific NameGorsachius magnificus
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)52.5
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark crown and nape, a prominent white patch behind the eye, and dark, heavily streaked and spotted brown body plumage. Juveniles, like the one pictured, are heavily mottled and streaked brown and buff, providing excellent camouflage, with a dark crown and yellowish eyes.
Vocalization / CallA deep, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or a harsh 'kraak' call, often heard at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern China, northern Vietnam, and possibly parts of Laos and Thailand.
Identifying FeaturesCryptic brown and streaked plumage, Long, slender neck, Dark crown with white ear patch (more prominent in adults), Yellowish eyes and bill base, Nocturnal behavior, Prefers dense forest near water
Description
A medium-sized, secretive heron with cryptic brown plumage, typically found in dense forest near water. It is largely nocturnal, hunting aquatic prey in its restricted range across Southeast Asia.
