The Bermuda night heron is an extinct heron species from Bermuda.
Region
North Atlantic (Bermuda)
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Bermuda archipelago, where it would have used coastal and nearshore habitats. It likely foraged along tidal flats, rocky shores, and mangrove-lined creeks, and around brackish and freshwater ponds. Roosting probably occurred in mangroves, low coastal scrub, or sheltered trees. Nesting sites were likely on small coastal islets or in low trees and shrubs near water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 80 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Bermuda night heron was an island endemic known from late Quaternary subfossil remains on Bermuda and is now extinct. It likely specialized on crabs, reflected in its robust bill and its species name meaning 'crab crusher'. The bird probably disappeared soon after human settlement due to habitat alteration and introduced predators. Today, the ecologically similar Yellow-crowned Night Heron occurs on Bermuda after being introduced in the 20th century.
Temperament
solitary and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
steady, direct flight with slow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Like other night herons, it likely foraged alone or in small groups and roosted communally in dense vegetation. Breeding was probably in loose colonies, with pairs nesting in low trees or shrubs near water. Courtship and nesting behavior were likely similar to congeners, with both sexes sharing incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls were probably harsh, barking notes similar to other night herons, including a hoarse 'quok' given in flight or from roosts. Vocal activity would have increased at dusk and during colony interactions.
