Capped Heron

An attractive heron, if slightly odd in appearance, the Capped Heron is a resident of South American forested swamps, river courses and small pools.  Although it seems adaptable to any habitat with water and has a wide distribution, it usually occurs only at low densities.  Often seen flying along rivers or feeding in pools, the Capped Heron can be conspicuous, and easily is identified by its silvery white body plumage, black cap and striking blue face. In flight, it is best distinguished from other white herons by its small size and rapid, choppy flight style. The sole member of the genus Pilherodius, the Capped Heron is superficially simlar to the night-herons, but does not share their nocturnal feeding habits nor their distinctive juvenile plumage.
As other herons, the Capped Heron feeds mainly on fish, but very small fish less than 5 cm long. It also catches aquatic insects and amphibians.
It feeds by day, standing motionless in shallow water, or walking slowly along the water edge in ponds, streams and pools. The prey is caught with the bill, sometimes impaled by jabbing.
The heron turns the head from side to side, watching for prey. Then, it crouches very slowly and holds the neck to catch the fish.  
Capped Heron usually feeds alone, but it may occasionally feed with other herons’ species in loose groups.
It frequently moves, flying off 100 metres or so to new feeding area.
This species is wary and quick to flush. It may be seen in small groups of up to 12 birds in swampy wooded areas, and they may roost in open bare trees.