black-crowned night heron
Quick Summary
The black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) is a widely distributed night heron. It is characterized by a black crown and back, gray wings, and white underparts.1
Herons, in general, are long-legged wading birds found in the family Ardeidae. They typically feed in shallow waters, catching fish and frogs, and nest in colonies called heronries. Herons are known for their distinctive S-shaped neck when standing and for flying with their legs trailing and neck held back.2
Night herons, including the black-crowned night heron, are distinguished by thicker bills and shorter legs compared to typical herons, and they are more active during twilight and nighttime hours. The black-crowned night heron has a broad geographic range, found across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia.2
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