Black Creek Park :: Yellow Crowned Night Heron under the Viaduct

At Black Creek Park in Fultondale, there is a family of Yellow Crowned Night Herons, one adult and three juveniles. The youngsters' coloration differs from the adults, as they will grow into the distinctive make-up of the fully gown yellow crowned night heron. This heron is fishing under the viaduct on Black Creek Stream that feeds into Black Creek.

Black Creek Park :: Yellow Crowned Night Heron Stalking the Creek

Juvenile Yellow Crowned Night Heron :: Black Creek Park, Fultondale

There are two varieties of night heron found in North America. To the left is a juvenile Yellow Crowned Night Heron, which can be distinguished from the Black Crowned Night Heron in a number of ways.

Juvenile Yellow Crowned Night Heron :: Black Creek Park, Fultondale

The Yellow Crowned Night Heron has a shortish, stubby bill; limited pale markings on its wings; and clearer markings on its underside.

This juvenile is fishing for the small fish that frequents the shallow waters that run along the stony bottom of Black Creek at Black Creek Park in Fultondale, Alabama.