Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park
Opening times today: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry allowed at 4:30 PM)
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Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

Habitat

Wetlands and mangroves

Weight

0.7–0.9 kg

Height

58–65 cm

Lifespan

10–20 years

Origin

Found across most continents — Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas

Status

Least Concern

Bird
heron

About the Black-crowned Night Heron

Medium-sized nocturnal heron with black crown and back, grey wings, and red eyes—often seen roosting quietly by day near wetlands.

Location in Zoo

Aviary

Feeding Times

Evening and night

Feeding Habits

Carnivorous – feeds on fish, crustaceans, insects, amphibians, and small mammals

Fun Facts

Mostly active at dusk and night; known for their croaking “quawk” call. Juveniles have brown streaked plumage before turning grey and black as adults.

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Mostly active at dusk and night; known for their croaking “quawk” call. Juveniles have brown streaked plumage before turning grey and black as adults.

Conservation Status

Current Threats

  • Habitat loss, water pollution, and disturbance at breeding sites

Our Conservation Efforts

Wetland protection and awareness against pollution

Indian Elephant IUCN category

Visit the Black-crowned Night Heron

Come see this magnificent animal up close and learn more about our conservation efforts.