PrintAnimals on the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
With its massive broad scoop-like bill and very big eyes the Boat-billed Heron is the funniest-looking of all Costa Rican herons. The wading bird lives in small colonies, often hiding in thick cover. The oversized eyes are an adaptation to hunting at dawn and at night.
The Green Heron species which occurs in Costa Rica is found from South Canada to Panama. This small heron is commonly found near shallow fresh, brackish and salt water.
Of the three tiger-herons in Costa Rica the Bare-throated Tiger-Heron is the most common one. It is found in fresh and brakish water habitats, often standing in a motionless posture in shallow waters and waiting for prey which they spear up with their sharp beak. The birds have their name for the fine herringbone pattern of their plumage.
Little Blue Heron