Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Heron Species Types of Birds Heron Pictures

The Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea), inhabits fresh and brackish water areas in much of the Eastern United States, and it is the sole representative of the Nyctanassa genus.

While population levels in the Southeast are considered stable, some Midwest and Northeast population levels are listed as endangered, due primarily to habitat loss.

The top picture shows a juvenile with its characteristic brown feathers and black bill. Mature individuals have blue feathers with a white stripe across the face and a yellow stripe of feathers on the crown of the head.

They have the uncanny ability to stand frozen for long periods of time, waiting for food to come their way.

They are migratory birds that winter as far south as Central and South America.

© 2009. Patricia A. Michaels