Striated Heron

The Striated Heron is a small, cryptic wader found along Ecuador’s lowland rivers, mangroves, and forested wetlands, where it hunts stealthily from overhanging branches or muddy banks. Globally listed as Least Concern, it remains locally common in the Amazon basin and coastal regions, though easily overlooked due to its solitary habits and excellent camouflage. This species is known for its patient, ambush-style feeding and occasional use of bait—dropping objects to lure fish within striking range. In Ecuador, it is most frequently recorded in provinces like Pastaza and Esmeraldas, favoring quiet, shaded waterways with dense vegetation.