White-crested Tiger Heron
Tigriornis leucolopha
The White-crested Tiger Heron (Tigriornis leucolopha) is a legendary herons, egrets, and bittern found in 9 countries, weighing about 846 g. The white-crested tiger heron, also known as the white-crested bittern, is a species of heron in the monotypic genus Tigriornis and a member of the family Ardeidae.
About the White-crested Tiger Heron
The white-crested tiger heron, also known as the white-crested bittern, is a species of heron in the monotypic genus Tigriornis and a member of the family Ardeidae. It is widely distributed across the African tropical rainforest, often occurring near small streams and marshes. This heron exhibits unobtrusive black, brown and buff coloration and possesses a white crest, which may be viewed when erected. Not much is known about this heron or its behaviors, although it is known to feed on the small fish, crustaceans, frogs, snakes and insects which inhabit rivers or river shores. Despite its elusiveness, it is found over a broad range and has been assessed by the International Union for…
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How to identify it
The white-crested tiger heron possesses a distinct appearance, including a slender elongated body, standing at around 66 to 80 centimeters (26 to 31 inches) tall. Its plumage is relatively dull, and consists of brown, buff and rufous plumage, along with black barring. The exception to its dull plumage lies in its brilliant white crest, although not much is known about its uses. The nape along with the sides of its head and neck are light rufous with black barring, while the mantle, scapulars and rump possess rufous, buff and brown coloration, with bold black bars.
Where it lives
When to see it
Best months: January, February, March, April, October, November, December, with peak activity in December. It is a winter visitor species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a White-crested Tiger Heron?
- The white-crested tiger heron possesses a distinct appearance, including a slender elongated body, standing at around 66 to 80 centimeters (26 to 31 inches) tall. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a White-crested Tiger Heron?
- The White-crested Tiger Heron is a large sized bird weighing about 846 g.
- Where can you see a White-crested Tiger Heron?
- The White-crested Tiger Heron occurs in 9 countries, including Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon and Cameroon.
- What birds look similar to a White-crested Tiger Heron?
- The White-crested Tiger Heron is most easily confused with the Lava Heron, the Forest Bittern and the Japanese Night Heron.
- Is the White-crested Tiger Heron endangered?
- The White-crested Tiger Heron is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the White-crested Tiger Heron for real
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