Habitat:
Mangroves, swamps, tropical rainforests

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Boat-billed Heron, or Cochlearius cochlearius, is a fascinating bird from the Ardeidae family. It is distinguished by its broad, spoon-shaped bill, ideal for capturing aquatic prey. This nocturnal heron primarily inhabits mangroves, swamps, and tropical rainforests in Central and South America. Its plumage is mainly gray with a black head adorned with a distinctive white crest. It measures about 50 cm in length with a wingspan of 76 to 86 cm. The Boat-billed Heron is a discreet bird, often difficult to observe due to its nocturnal habits. It feeds mainly on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Boat-billed Heron, focus on twilight or nighttime hours, as this bird is primarily active at night. Use a 400mm or longer lens to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing it. A tripod is recommended to stabilize your camera in low-light conditions. Be patient and discreet, as this bird is suspicious and can be difficult to spot. Silent mode photography can also be helpful to avoid scaring it away.