Same Night Herons or not??

· by

We have both Yellow-crowned Night Herons, and Black-crowned Night Herons in our wetlands. These first two photos below show an adult Yellow-crowned Night Heron (l.) and a Black-crowned Night Heron (r.).

These Night Herons look quite distinctly different from one another as adults, as can be seen. The juveniles below, however, look much more similar to one another. When you see a juvenile, it is sometimes hard to be 100% sure which is which.

Do you think the two juveniles are the same species as one another, or two different species? Do you think they are Yellow-crowned or Black-crowned? The following sites have helpful comparisons: All About Birds; Audubon; Birdzilla; OntheWing

17 thoughts on “Same Night Herons or not??”

  3. That is so true BJ for many juvenile birds, as they have their mottled brown and white protective plumage often similar to the female to protect them while nesting. I find it difficult with juveniles of waterbirds also.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  7. I have a very difficult time even finding them.

    Especially when there is no moon. I mean, it’s really dark in the marsh. You must have a really powerful flash to get such nice photographs! But I’m especially impressed you located both species in the middle of the night!

    What?

    Night Herons can be seen in the daytime??

    Never mind.

    (Terrific post! The immature birds can be quite challenging to i.d. Sorry to hijack the post with attempted humor. I blame not enough coffee.)

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

Leave a comment