Yellow-crowned night heron spotted at Museum of Life and Science wetlands

Ranger Greg of the Museum of Life and Science observed a yellow-crowned night heron (YCNH) in the museum's wetlands on April 3, 2026. The sighting was first reported by Exhibits Tech Dakota from the Floating Walkway. This marks only the fourth time the species has been recorded at this location, following previous sightings in 2011, 2018, and 2023. The bird was in high breeding plumage, though its yellow crown was subtle. Yellow-crowned night herons are typically coastal, feeding on crustaceans from New England to Florida, but they also nest inland where crayfish are abundant. The museum's wetland hosts invasive red-swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), a key food source. Ranger Greg expressed hope that the heron will attract a mate and establish a breeding pair.