Nepal, a country celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, houses numerous captivating bird species. One such avian wonder is the enigmatic Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax). This magnificent bird can be spotted throughout Nepal, making it a must-see for nature lovers. In this article, we'll explore some intriguing facts about this elusive species and offer tips on where to find them in their natural environment.
Amazing Details About the Black-crowned Night-Heron
Appearance and Size
The Black-crowned Night-Heron is a medium-sized wader, usually measuring 58â66 cm (23â26 inches) long and weighing 800 g â 1 kg (1.7â2.2 lbs). It has an elegant plumage, featuring its signature black crown that contrasts with its pale grey wings and white underparts. It's red eyes and sharp yellow legs further emphasize its stunning looks.
Nocturnal Bird
As its name suggests, the Black-crowned Night-Heron is primarily active during night-time and early morning hours as they forage for food in wetlands, marshes, and shallow waters. During daylight hours, you can often spot them resting on tree branches or hidden within dense vegetation.
Varied Diet
These adaptable birds boast a diverse menu ranging from fish, crustaceans, amphibians, insects, and small mammals to even smaller bird species inhabiting the same areas. Their superb stealth abilities and rapid reflexes make them skillful hunters capable of catching their prey with ease.
Nesting Habits
Nycticorax nycticorax tends to nest in colonies alongside other heron species. They construct their nests using sticks and twigs situated in trees or tall shrubs near water bodies. The female typically lays 3-5 eggs, which the monogamous pair incubate for about 21-25 days. Once the chicks hatched, both parents provide food and protection until they become independent at around six weeks old.
Finding Black-crowned Night-Herons in Nepal
Your best chance of observing this mesmerizing species is by visiting wetland habitats throughout Nepal where they flourish in various environments like swamps, marshes, riverbanks, and even urban waters. Prime locations to observe these elusive birds include:
Chitwan National Park
Renowned for its rich wildlife, Chitwan National Park is an excellent location to discover Black-crowned Night-Herons among numerous other bird species. The park's plentiful rivers and wetlands offer ideal homes for these captivating creatures.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
A birdwatching paradise, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is home to over 500 bird species, including the Black-crowned Night-Heron. Make sure to join the early morning or late evening birdwatching tours to maximize your chances of spotting these nocturnal birds.
Urban wetlands
You don't need to travel deep into the wilderness to encounter the mysterious Nycticorax nycticorax. In fact, a variety of urban wetlands like the Taudaha Lake, located south of Kathmandu, support populations of these remarkable birds.
Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or simply a nature enthusiast, seeking out the enigmatic Black-crowned Night-Heron during your journey in Nepal is an experience you won't want to miss.