Crested Savaku

The crested savaku lives in river regions stretching from the north coast of Mexico to Peru, Bolivia and northern Argentina, its preferred habitat being mangrove swamps. It is distinguished from other herons by its broad, powerful beak, nocturnal habits and particularly large eyes. It leaves its perch at dusk. It feeds on fish, crustaceans, amphibians, small mammals and insects.

There is no sexual dimorphism. The female lays 2 to 4 light greenish-blue eggs spotted with red in a nest made from a pile of plants and branches, with the male and female taking turns to incubate. Incubation lasts around 25 to 30 days. The chicks are nest-feeders and are fed by both parents through regurgitation.