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Sunbittern

Eurypyga helias major

Did you know?

  • The only member of the Eurypygidae family.
  • Sunbitterns prefer to walk as opposed to flying.
  • If alarmed, they will fly up into the treetops and unfold their wings as a sign of defense.
  • They can be found individually and in pairs.
  • Females lay two or three eggs in a clutch.

Defensive Coloration

These birds are not social so they do not require much communication except for protection. They have chestnut eye-shape patches on their wings and tail. When threatened, they will display these patches and hiss. In order to protect their nest, adults will mimic a wing injury and draw predators away.

Aquatic Eaters

Sunbitterns hunt near the water's edge, eating mostly fish, amphibians, insects and crustaceans. They are important predators that help to balance aquatic ecosystems.

Threat Level

  • Unknown
  • Common
  • Near Threatened
  • Threatened
  • Endangered
  • Critically Endangered
  • Extinct in the Wild

Common

The Sunbittern is widespread and abundant.

Range

Central and South America

Habitat

Tropical forests, near water

We care about sunbitterns

The Saint Louis Zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan® for sunbitterns. This is a cooperative breeding program, with a number of zoos working together to ensure the survival of this species. We also support them in the Bird House at the Zoo. Learn more about how we are helping wildlife around the world: Dedicated to Conservation

Find this animal in Historic Hill

SAINT LOUIS ZOO ZONE

Historic Hill

Historic Hill is a lovely stroll through one of the oldest parts of the Saint Louis Zoo. From the 1904 World’s Fair Flight Cage to the Spanish architectural flavor of the 1920s in the Bird House, Primate House and Herpetarium to the finishing touches of our thoroughly modern exhibits, this area of the Zoo has a unique ambiance and a nostalgic history that make it a great destination.

Explore Historic Hill