The rufescent tiger heron is a species of heron in the family Ardeidae. It is found in wetlands from Central America through much of South America.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Panama through northern and central South America, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins, the Guianas, and much of Brazil to northern Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It prefers forested rivers, oxbow lakes, swamps, marsh edges, and mangroves, usually where cover is dense. Common in the Pantanal and along shaded lowland streams in rainforest. Typically avoids fast-flowing water and very open, exposed shorelines. Often seen singly along quiet backwaters and flooded forests.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive, largely crepuscular heron, the rufescent tiger heron often hunts by standing motionless at shaded water edges. Adults show rich rufous tones on the head and neck, while juveniles are boldly barred, enhancing camouflage. Its deep, booming calls carry far at dusk and dawn. It frequents quiet backwaters, oxbow lakes, and forested streams across the Neotropics.
Juvenile - Sacha Lodge - Ecuador
T. l. lineatum, young adult, Panama
Juvenile
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong but unhurried with slow, deep wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in well-spaced pairs along quiet waterways. Nests singly or in very loose aggregations in trees near water, constructing a simple stick platform. Courtship involves low, resonant calls and display postures with neck extended. Adults are highly secretive and rely on stillness for concealment.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include deep, booming hoots and low grunts, most often at dawn and dusk. Calls carry through dense vegetation and along river corridors, aiding contact between mates in low-visibility habitats.
