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Description
Length: 56-61
cm (22 - 24 in) Related to egrets and bitterns; characterized
by long legs and necks, straight pointed bill. Plumage white to
yellowish-white or cream, except for black crown. Long white feathers
at nape of neck. Bright blue surrounding eyes and base of bill.
Bare lores and facial skin blue, bill grayish-blue. Similar to
egret but note black crown.
Range
Central and
South America: Found south of central Panama to northern Bolivia,
Paraguay and southeastern Brazil.
Habitat
Lives along
river banks, or, less frequently, along freshwater ponds and marsh
edges surrounded by forest.
Niche
Wading bird,
feeding on fish and other aquatic animals near muddy banks or
in shallow flooded areas. Usually somewhat inactive; solitary.
Life History
Little known.
Nests containing two eggs have been found low in trees.
Status
Uncommon,
seen along the Tahuayo from in spring and summer.
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