Black-crowned Night Heron

The Black-crowned Night Heron is the most widespread Heron in the world, with a range that spans five continents.  It is most active at dusk and at night, feeding in the same areas that other Heron species frequent during the day.  It grasps its prey with its sharp talons rather than stabbing it with its bill.  This guy was sitting on the upper level of a dock surveying the waters of the Arroyo Colorado for his next meal.