Butorides

Butorides is a small genus of herons in the family Ardeidae, comprising two widely recognized species: the little green heron (Butorides virescens) and the green-backed or striated heron (Butorides striata). These birds are among the smallest members of the heron family and are commonly found in wetlands across tropical and subtropical regions.

Adult Butorides are compact waders with short necks and stout bills. They typically show greenish or grayish upperparts and pale to rufous-tinged underparts, with regional variations. Juveniles are brown with streaked underparts. Size is around 40 to 50 centimeters in length with relatively short wings and legs.

Distribution varies by species. The little green heron inhabits wetlands of the Americas, from the southern United States to northern Argentina, including the Caribbean. The green-backed or striated heron has a broader Old World tropical distribution, including parts of Africa, Asia and Oceania, and may cross into adjacent regions depending on the taxonomy used.

Habitat includes marshes, mangroves, streams, ponds and quiet coastal waters. They hunt by stealth, often standing motionless in shallow water or wading slowly to capture fish, amphibians, crustaceans and insects. They are typically solitary except during breeding and may form loose foraging groups.

Breeding involves a cup-shaped nest built of sticks in trees or shrubs above water. The clutch usually comprises 3 to 5 eggs, incubated by both parents for about 21 to 23 days, with hatchlings cared for by both adults and fledging after roughly 25 to 35 days. The species are currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though local populations may be affected by habitat loss and degradation.