Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #28

By Jim Gain

5/23/2023

• Scientific Name: Tigrisoma mexicanum
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Garza Tigre Mexicana
• Name in Mayan: Hohob
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: BTTH
• Family: Ardeidae
• Order: Pelecaniformes

About this Species

The Bare-throated Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma mexicanum) is a large wading bird found in Belize and throughout much of Central and South America. Adults are typically between 26-31 inches in length and have a wingspan of 43-47 inches. As the name suggests, this species has a bare, orange-yellow throat that is distinctive in the field. The rest of the body is a rich chestnut-brown with fine black and white striping on the nape and throat.

Bare-throated Tiger-Herons can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, rivers, and forests, but they are most commonly associated with slow-moving bodies of water. They are typically solitary or found in pairs, and are often seen standing motionless in the water, waiting for prey to come within range. They feed on a variety of aquatic prey, including fish, frogs, and crustaceans, which they catch with their long, sharp bills.

Breeding typically occurs between February and July, with the birds building a nest platform of sticks in a tree overhanging the water. Clutches of 2-4 eggs are laid, which hatch after around 30 days. The young fledge after 50-55 days and become independent soon after.

The species is generally considered to be of least concern, although it is threatened by habitat loss and degradation in some areas.

>> Next Post on Friday, 5/26/2023 – Yucatan Woodpecker

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin