Maria-faceira (Whistling Heron)

Description:

Simply unmistakable. It is the only Brazilian heron with this color pattern. The common name is linked to the spectacular colors of the head: light blue face, gray crown and crest and pinkish beak with blue-violet stain on the tip. The plumage of the throat, neck and underparts is yellowish, while the back is light gray. The juvenile's colors are more faded, but otherwise it is identical to adults. Couples stay together most of the time, keeping in touch in flight with a special call, a long, melodious hiss. The sound produced is similar to that of toy steamk locomotives..