Nycticorax nycticorax

The Black-crowned Night Heron, scientifically known as Nycticorax nycticorax, casts a mysterious figure in the twilight of Croatia's rivers and lakes.

This medium-sized heron is notable for its stout build, striking black cap and back, and piercing red eyes, which enhance its nocturnal hunting abilities. As dusk falls, it emerges from its daytime hiding spots among dense tree foliage or reeds, to stalk fish and small aquatic animals with stealth and precision.

The Black-crowned Night Heron is both a resident and a migratory bird in Croatia, symbolizing the ecological richness of the country’s wetland habitats. Its presence accentuates the necessity of night-time biodiversity and the need to safeguard the dark habitats that support such unique species.

Celebrating this nocturnal heron inspires a greater commitment to preserving the natural nightscapes that are essential for many creatures.

• Birds