blackcrowned

Blackcrowned, commonly written as black-crowned, is a descriptive term used in the common names of various organisms to denote a dark crown or cap on the head. It is not a formal taxonomic group, but a motif that appears in wildlife field guides and popular names across multiple taxa. The term is usually hyphenated when used in English and serves to distinguish a species by a distinctive head coloration.

The best-known example is the Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), a medium-sized wading bird with a characteristic dark crown. Adults typically show a black cap that extends to the back of the neck, pale face and underparts, and blue-gray wings. The species inhabits wetlands, riversides, and coastal areas worldwide, favoring warm regions and often breeding in colonies near water. It is primarily nocturnal, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and insects. Breeding involves laying a small clutch of eggs in tree or shrub nests, with both parents participating in incubation and chick rearing. The Black-crowned night heron is noted for its adaptability, including success in some urban environments.

Beyond this species, the epithet appears in other common names to signal a similar dark crown feature, including various birds, reptiles, and occasionally plants. Because common names are not standardized, the term may refer to different taxa in different regions or guides. For precise identification, researchers and observers rely on scientific names and detailed descriptions rather than the common name alone.