Zigzag Heron vs Forest Bittern
Zebrilus undulatus compared with Zonerodius heliosylus
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Zigzag Heron | Forest Bittern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Zebrilus undulatus | Zonerodius heliosylus |
| Order | Pelecaniformes | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae | Ardeidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 28.2 cm (11.1 in) | 60.6 cm (23.9 in) |
| Weight | 123.0 g (4.34 oz) | 802.0 g (28.29 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-2 | -- |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Zigzag Heron
Near Threatened
Forest Bittern
About These Birds
Zigzag Heron
The Zigzag Heron (Zebrilus undulatus) is one of the smallest and most enigmatic members of the family Ardeidae, found in tropical South America. It is the sole member of its genus and is among the least-known herons in the world due to its secretive habits and specialized habitat. Adults are intricately patterned with irregular zigzag lines and vermiculations of dark brown, rufous, and buff across the entire plumage — a cryptic pattern that provides near-perfect camouflage in its humid forest …