From Opus

Butorides sundevalli

Photo by GordonH
Locality: the Galapagos.

aka Lava Heron.

Description

A small heron with a total length of 35 cm (14 in). Overall blackish-grey with a black bill and yellow eyes. The legs are yellowish (brighter when breeding). Juveniles are brownish with whitish-buff streaking to the head, neck and underparts and spotting to the wings.

Identification

Adults unmistakable in range. Juveniles are essentially identical to juvenile Striated Heron.

Distribution

Endemic to the Galapagos Islands, where fairly common.

Habitat

Mainly in coastal areas.

Behavior

Feeds on fishes, crabs and other small animals found near the shore. Breeding is year-round, whenever conditions are suitable.

Nesting

The nest is built low in bushes (mainly mangrove) or under rocks.

Taxonomy

Often considered a subspecies of the Striated Heron.

External Links

• more images of Galapagos Heron in the gallery