Black-crowned Night Heron —Ross Feldner

Black-crowned Night Herons are the most widespread heron species in the world and live in a variety of habitats. They breed on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. Night herons get their name from their habit of feeding between evening and early morning. They have a very diverse diet that includes fish, leeches (yum!), earthworms, insects, crayfish, clams, amphibians, lizards, snakes, turtles, rodents, birds, eggs, and even garbage foraged at landfills.

Unlike other herons who generally stab their prey, The Black-crowned Night Heron will grasp it in its bill.

They breed throughout the year, but most of the breeding activity takes place during spring and late summer. Males attract females by performing various routines and often the female is rejected by the displaying male. After a pair is formed, the legs of the male and the female turn pink showing sexual readiness. Young birds, upon birth, leave the nest within one month, although they are unable to fly.