Habitat:
Shaded rivers, forested stream banks, montane humid forests

Description:
The Sunbittern is a medium-sized bird, about 43 cm long, known for its striking wing patterns that resemble eyespots. When threatened, it fans out its wings like a butterfly or stylized sun to startle predators. It has a long beak, slender neck, and thin legs adapted to walking along rivers and streams. Found in Central and South America, it inhabits shaded riverbanks and humid forests at moderate elevations. Solitary and elusive, it feeds on small fish, aquatic insects, and invertebrates. While not currently endangered, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and water pollution.

Recommended lens:
>=400 mm

Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph the sunbittern as it moves along a stream. Wait silently to capture its spectacular wing display, usually triggered by alarm or territorial behavior. Early morning light works best to reveal the colorful details of its plumage.