Rufescent Tiger Heron
1. Bird Name
The bird we are focusing on is popularly known as the Rufescent Tiger Heron, its scientific name being Tigrisoma lineatum.
2. Appearance
The Rufescent Tiger Heron is a mesmerizing creature that has a distinctive appearance. Its feathers possess a rufous color that gives it a rusty or reddish hue, hence the name ‘Rufescent.’ Its ensemble is further stylized with alternating white and black stripes and patches, reminiscent of a tiger’s coat, which explain the ‘Tiger’ in its name. The beak of this bird is long and pointed, with a yellow tint. Meanwhile, the bird’s eyes are an intriguing mix of yellow and brown hues. Roughly speaking, males and females have similar appearances, providing no sexual dimorphism. The juvenile birds of this species have a distinctly mottled brown and white appearance.
3. Size
The average length of the Rufescent Tiger Heron ranges from 65-75 cm (around 25-30 inches), not including the long, extending neck. The wingspan can approximately reach up to 120 cm (47 inches), and the average weight is between 900 and 1300 grams.
4. Habitat & Distribution
The Rufescent Tiger Heron can be intriguingly found across a wide range of regions, from central parts of Mexico all the way to northern Argentina. They tend to favor wetland habitats such as marshes, swamp forests, riverbanks, and lake edges. These birds have been observed in both lowland areas and mountainous regions up to 1000 meters in elevation.
5. Interesting Facts
Among the unique behaviors of the Rufescent Tiger Heron is its feeding habit. They are known to stand motionless for long periods, waiting patiently for their prey to come within striking distance. Another interesting fact is that juveniles have been observed to perform a peculiar “wing-drop” display when they spot potential food. In various cultures, this bird is often depicted as a symbol of patience due to its hunting habits.
6. Diet
Rufescent Tiger Herons are carnivores. Their primary diet consists of small fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects, which they catch using a swift and sudden stab with their beak.
7. Behavior & Sounds
These herons are often solitary, particularly when feeding. However, they can be found in communal roosting groups at night. Their call, typically heard at dawn or dusk, is a soft, low ‘hooo’ sound. Breeding adults have been observed to perform a spectacular duetting display, where they alternate calls with each other.
8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Rufescent Tiger Heron is currently classified as of Least Concern, largely due to its wide distribution across Latin America.
9. Lifespan
The exact lifespan of the Rufescent Tiger Heron in the wild is unknown, but similar species have been documented to live up to 15-20 years in the wild. In captivity, this lifespan can be extended with appropriate care.
10. Additional Notes
In Spanish, the Rufescent Tiger Heron is locally known as “martÃn pescador grande”, meaning big kingfisher. This bird holds cultural significance amongst several indigenous communities, who see it as an important part of their local wetland ecosystems due to its role as a predator of various aquatic species. Their behavior can also provide an indication of the health of the aquatic ecosystems in which they dwell.
