The Sunbittern is reported in watery habitats in Guatemala and northern Brazil. When frightened, it spreads its wings and tail to reveal hidden orange and chestnut patches.
Its mostly black head has white stripes around the red eyes. The chest is brown and the belly pale; orange and chestnut patches show in a defensive display.
Sunbitterns forage along forest streams in Central and South America. Closed wings blend into their surroundings, but spread wings reveal conspicuous orange and brown markings.
Spreading wings and tail can make the bird appear larger to an adversary. Near chicks, a parent may also perform a broken-wing display to draw a predator away.
Both parents incubate in a cup nest and feed the chicks. They guard young closely early on, then leave older chicks while foraging.
IUCN Red List (conservation institution account) · Least Concern · Global
Habitat loss is associated with population decline. Retaining forest streams, feeding areas and nesting vegetation addresses this habitat dependence.