The Rufescent Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma lineatum) is a species of heron in the family Ardeidae. It is found in wetlands from Central America through much of South America. Is a medium-sized heron, measuring 26–30 in (66–76 cm) in length, with a mass between 630 and 980 g (22 and 35 oz). The sexes are similarly plumaged. The adult's head, neck and chest are dark rufous, with a white stripe down the center of the foreneck. The remainder of its upperparts are brownish with fine black vermiculations, its belly and vent are buffy-brown, and its flanks are barred black and white. Its tail is black, narrowly barred with white. Its stout bill is yellowish to dusky, and its legs are dull green. Its irides, loral skin, and orbital ring are bright yellow. Unlike other tiger herons, it has no powder down feathers on its back. The juvenile bird is rusty-buff overall, coarsely barred with black; the buff and black banding on its wings is especially pronounced. Its throat, central chest, and belly are white. It takes some five years to acquire adult plumage.
Habitats & Distribution
Rufescent Tiger-Herons are typically found in a variety of wetland habitats including riverbanks, marshes, swamps, and lakesides. They prefer areas with dense vegetation and slow-moving or still water, which provide ample cover and feeding opportunities. These environments offer a plentiful supply of fish, amphibians, and small invertebrates, which form the bulk of their diet. Geographically, the Rufescent Tiger-Heron ranges from southern Mexico through Central America and into South America, extending as far south as northern Argentina and Uruguay. They are relatively common in lowland regions within this range and are often spotted in both protected and disturbed wetland areas. This species is adaptable to a variety of freshwater and occasionally brackish ecosystems within its extensive range.
Behaviours & Reproduction
The Rufescent Tiger-Heron exhibits solitary behavior except during the breeding season. Monogamous pairs form and engage in elaborate courtship displays that include mutual preening and synchronized calls. Nesting usually takes place in secluded areas, often in dense vegetation near water sources. The nest is built from twigs and lined with softer materials, positioned high in trees or dense shrubs to protect against predators. The female typically lays two to four eggs, and both parents participate in the incubation process, which lasts about 25 to 30 days. Once the chicks hatch, both parents take an active role in feeding and protecting them until they fledge, which occurs approximately six to seven weeks after hatching. Unique to their reproductive strategy, the Rufescent Tiger-Heron vigorously defends its nesting territory to ensure the safety and success of its offspring.
Diet
Including fish, crustaceans, water beetles, and dragonfly larvae. It also takes adult dragonflies and grasshoppers.
Colors
The adult's head, neck and chest are dark rufous, with a white stripe down the center of the foreneck. The remainder of its upperparts are brownish with fine black vermiculations, its belly and vent are buffy-brown, and its flanks are barred black and white. Its tail is black, narrowly barred with white.
Fun Facts
This medium-sized heron is found around swamps, marshes, and sluggish streams at lower elevations. Usually seen singly. Adults are distinctive with their bright rufous head and neck. Juveniles are buffy with uneven black barring. Juveniles essentially identical to juvenile Fasciated Tiger-Heron, but note different habitat.
Conservation Status & Efforts
The Rufescent Tiger-Heron is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its widespread range and stable population trends. However, localized declines have been noted, primarily driven by habitat destruction and degradation. Wetland draining for agriculture, deforestation for logging, and pollution are key threats impacting its habitats across Central and South America. Efforts to conserve the Rufescent Tiger-Heron focus on habitat protection and restoration. This includes the establishment and management of protected areas that encompass critical wetland habitats. Additionally, environmental regulations aimed at controlling pollution and sustainable agriculture practices help mitigate some of the pressures on its habitats. Continued monitoring and research are essential to ensure that any changes in population trends are detected early and addressed promptly.
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