White-backed Night Heron

Calherodius leuconotus (Wagler, 1827)

White-backed Night Heron, Calherodius leuconotus, is a heron of widespread Africa, breeding across the continent. It belongs to the family Ardeidae and is placed in the order Pelecaniformes. The bird is found in central and southern Africa, especially in dense forest close to water, including streams, lakes, mangroves and marshes. It is the only species in Calherodius. Adults show a black head with a short crest, red eyes, pale yellow lores and a striking white triangular patch on the back. It is usually seen alone or in pairs.

Order

Pelecaniformes

Family

Ardeidae — Herons, Bitterns

Breeding range

Africa: widespread