The agami heron is a medium-sized heron. It is a resident breeding bird from Central America south to Peru and Brazil. It is sometimes known as the chestnut-bellied heron, and is the only member of the genus Agamia. In Brazil it is sometimes called Soco beija-flor, meaning 'hummingbird heron', thanks to its unique coloration pattern.
Region
Central America and the Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Found from southern Mexico through Central America into northern and central South America, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins. It inhabits lowland rainforests, blackwater and clearwater streams, oxbow lakes, and swampy river margins under dense canopy. The species prefers quiet, shaded waters with overhanging vegetation where it can hunt stealthily. Breeding colonies are typically located in remote flooded forests and along slow-moving rivers.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the chestnut-bellied heron, the Agami heron is the only member of the genus Agamia. Its striking mix of deep chestnut and iridescent blue-green plumage has earned it the nickname 'hummingbird heron' in Brazil. Exceptionally secretive, it favors shaded forest streams and nests in remote colonies over water. Habitat loss and disturbance at breeding colonies have contributed to population declines.
In Bolivia
Juvenile, in Brazil
Chicks
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
low, unhurried flight with slow deep wingbeats; often under the forest canopy
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it is mostly solitary, creeping along shaded banks or standing motionless near cover. Breeds colonially, often in sizable groups, placing stick platforms over water in flooded forest. Courtship includes mutual preening, bill clattering, and display of long neck plumes.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving low croaks, grunts, and hisses, especially at nesting colonies. Alarm calls are harsher, while contact notes are soft and guttural.
