It is widely distributed across the African tropical rainforest, often occurring near small streams and marshes.

[1] This heron exhibits unobtrusive black, brown and buff coloration and possesses a white crest, which may be viewed when erected.

[2] Despite its elusiveness, it is found over a broad range and has been assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as "Least Concern".

[1] The white-crested tiger heron possesses a distinct appearance, including a slender elongated body, standing at around 66 to 80 centimeters tall (25–31 in).

[2][4] This bird was first described in 1846 by Scottish ornithologist and naturalist Sir William Jardine, who classified it as "Tigrornis leucolophus.

This heron ranges throughout a large expanse of western and central Africa, spanning across the African tropical rainforest.

[10] It is a carnivorous solitary feeder, primarily foraging for a wide range of fish, crabs, crayfish, frogs, snakes, spiders and insects.

[citation needed] Its booming call is similar to most large bitterns, and it may take the form of a single- or double-noted sound.

[2] Egg laying dates vary greatly, and have been documented as September–October in Sierra Leone, October in Liberia, May in Cameroon and January in Gabon.