Black-crowned Night Heron
Black-crowned Night Heron Overview
Black-crowned night herons, known as auku'u in the Hawaiian language, are wetland birds and can be found on all main Hawaiian Islands. A few of them have also made it to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. They can even be seen even at popular beach parks, such as at Ala Moana Beach Park on Oahu.
They feed on fish, frogs, crustaceanas, insects and chicks of other waterbirds. Their habitat is around streams, marshes, exposed reefs, ponds and tide pools. Black-crowned night herons are most active at dawn or dusk. Breeding season for the black-crowned night-heron is between May and June. The nest is usually located up in trees and is composed of sticks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see black-crowned night herons in Hawaii?
They can be seen on all main Hawaiian Islands and even in popular spots like Ala Moana Beach Park on Oahu. Look for them near wetlands, ponds, or tide pools.
When are black-crowned night herons most active?
They are crepuscular birds, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, especially when foraging for food.
When is the breeding season for black-crowned night herons?
In Hawaii, their breeding season typically occurs between May and June. They build their nests in trees using sticks.
What do black-crowned night herons eat?
Their diet includes fish, insects, frogs, crustaceans, and even chicks of other waterbirds. They hunt quietly in shallow water habitats.
What is the Hawaiian name for this bird?
In Hawaiian, the black-crowned night heron is called auku'u. It has long been part of native Hawaiian wetland ecosystems.