Common name: Black-crowned Night Heron
Scientific name: Nycticorax nycticorax
Family: Ardeidae

Size:
Body length: 58–65 cm
Wingspan: 105–112 cm
Weight: 700–1000 g

Identification:
A stocky, medium-sized heron with a short neck and compact posture. Adults are distinctive with a black crown and back, pale grey wings, and white underparts. The eyes are red, and the bill is thick and dark. During the breeding season, long white plumes extend from the back of the head. Juveniles are brown and heavily streaked, quite different from adults.

Habitat:
Wetlands, marshes, mangroves, lakes, rivers, and coastal lagoons. Prefers areas with dense vegetation and roosting sites.

Status in the UAE:
Common passage migrant and winter visitor; small numbers present year-round at some wetlands and coastal sites.

Status in Lebanon:
Common passage migrant, especially in spring; scarce in winter. Seen at wetlands, rivers and the coast.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, and small vertebrates.

Behavior:
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular. Spends the day roosting in trees or dense vegetation and becomes active at dusk. Hunts by standing still at the water’s edge or moving slowly before striking. Often nests in colonies.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)