Nankeen Night Heron

1. Cinnamon-brown back with a black crown and pale underparts

2. Stocky, short-necked build with a heavy black bill and yellow legs

3. Juveniles are streaked brown and cream with white spots on the wings

These herons are mainly nocturnal, hunting for fish, frogs, insects, crustaceans, and occasionally small mammals or birds. They use a patient, stealthy approach, often standing motionless at the water’s edge. Breeding usually peaks from October to May, but can occur year-round depending on water conditions. Nests are built in trees or shrubs over water, often in colonies with other waterbirds. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties, and chicks remain dependent for several weeks after fledging.

Nankeen Night Herons are widespread across most of Australia (except the far west), and also occur in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and nearby islands. They prefer wetlands, rivers, lakes, mangroves, and urban parks with water. Look for them roosting in dense foliage or tall trees by day, and becoming active around dusk. Their deep, croaking calls often reveal their presence before they are seen.