Nyctanassa violacea inhabits coastal regions from the southeastern United States down to the northern parts of South America. Its habitat includes mangroves, estuaries, marshes, lagoons, and tidal mudflats, where it forages along the edges of shallow water bodies. It is primarily resident throughout its range, though some northern populations migrate short distances during winter. It is categorized as a species of Least Concern, with an estimated population exceeding 1 million individuals.

Adults measure about 22 to 26 inches in length and display a distinctive appearance with a black crown, white cheeks, gray back, and yellow legs. The bill is stout and black, and two long white plumes extend backward from the crown during breeding season. Juveniles are entirely different in appearance, with streaked brown plumage and a more camouflaged look that aids in hiding from predators. Nyctanassa violacea is primarily nocturnal and shows peak activity at dusk and during the night. It feeds by standing still or walking slowly in shallow water, catching crustaceans, small fish, insects, and amphibians with quick thrusts of its bill. It also displays bait-fishing behavior, dropping small items like insects or leaves onto the water’s surface to lure fish within striking range, a foraging technique that is not widely observed among herons.