White-backed Night Heron

The White-backed Night Heron, Calherodius leuconotus, is a medium-sized heron adorned with a distinctive black head and a short crest. Its eyes are large and red, encircled by white-ringed markings, and the lores are a pale yellow. The throat is white, while the neck and breast exhibit a rufous tone. A white triangular patch on the back, formed by the white scapulars, is a notable feature. The belly is a whitish-brown and the legs are a cheerful yellow.

Identification Tips

To identify this heron, look for the white triangular patch on the back and the rufous neck and breast. The large red eyes with white-ringed markings are also distinctive. Juveniles can be recognized by their streaked breast and white spots on the upper-wing coverts.

Habitat

The White-backed Night Heron favors dense forests with close proximity to water bodies such as streams, lakes, mangroves, and marshes.

Distribution

This species is widespread throughout central and southern Africa, occupying a vast range estimated at over 20 million square kilometers.

Behaviour

These herons are often solitary or found in pairs. They are nocturnal, roosting in dense vegetation during the day and nesting high in trees. Their nests are platforms of sticks or reeds, concealed in vegetation near water. They are generally sedentary but may migrate in response to heavy rainfall.

Song & Calls

While typically silent, the White-backed Night Heron emits a loud 'kroak' when alarmed and a 'taash' call when disturbed.

Breeding

Breeding usually occurs during the rainy season or early in the dry season. The clutch consists of two to three greenish-white eggs, with an incubation period of about 24 to 26 days. Chicks fledge six to seven weeks after hatching.

Diet and Feeding

These herons forage along waterways, consuming a diet of fish, amphibians, mollusks, and insects.

Conservation status

The White-backed Night Heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. The population is stable, with no significant declines or threats, although habitat loss and hunting for traditional medicine do pose some risk.