American Bittern

58 cm (23") Fairly common. Marshes, ponds with tall vegetation.

Stocky brown heron, heavily streaked underneath. A warmer brown than similar immature night-herons and shows black stripe on neck and blackish outer wings in flight.

Secretive, often hides by standing with neck elongated, motionless or slightly swaying, with bill pointed straight up to aid camouflage.

Song: distinctive pumping sound "oonga-KA-chunk" repeated.

Videos

Images

Credit: Len Blumin

Credit: Chuq Von Rospach

Credit: Sallie Gentry / USFWS

Credit: Kenneth Cole Schneider

Distribution Maps

American Bittern distribution map

American Bittern winter distribution map