From Opus

Tigrisoma fasciatum

Photo by: Gary Clark
Location: Rio Silanche, Ecuador

Neck extended. Photo by: Gary Clark
Location: Rio Silanche, Ecuador

[edit] Identification

Length 62-66cm (24-26in.) Typical body shape of a heron, with long neck, but often not extended. Body appears overall dark at a distance, but it has a fine pattern of stripes and bars. The neck and upper breast shows a single, vertical brown stripe bordered by white or buff plumage. Yellow markings on face. Top of flat head is slaty.

[edit] Distribution

In Central America occurs in Honduras, Costa Rica and Panama and in South America found from Colombia and Venezuela south to Bolivia and north-west Argentina with a separate area of range in south-eastern Brazil and north-east Argentina. Resident.

[edit] Taxonomy

[edit] Subspecies

Three races recognised. Nominate race occurs in southern Brazil, paler pallescens is found in a limited area of north-west Argentina and salmoni is smaller and more finely-barred and occurs over most of South American range.

[edit] Habitat

Fast-flowing streams in humid montane forest.

[edit] Behaviour

Often stands on a boulder in mid-stream, catching fish from fast-flowing water. Patient, holds same pose for a considerable period, again typical of the family.

[edit] External Links