american bittern

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus).

This usually well camouflaged and hiding bittern was out in the open about 10 feet from me, busy watching the water for a fish and not minding me at all

American Bittern

This American bittern was enjoying late afternoon sun as sunset approached - quite out in the open which is unusual - and not bothered at all by me, standing just 20 feet away

I believe this is the same bird but taken the next weak, at the CREW in Naples, Florida.

Having visited the CREW in Naples many times over the years I had never seen this bittern there, but this year it was a regular visitor.

Taken at the Corkscrew Crew, a spot you must visit if in the area.

This was taken at the Corkscrew CREW in Naples and it's the first time I've seen this Bittern in Florida.

American Bittern

American Bittern

American Bittern

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) Sexes similar. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, Chambers County, Texas, USA. Gulf Coast Prairies and Marshes Vegetational Area. Shoveler pond, a large freshwater marsh.

Absolute master of stealth and camouflage. It was a treat to see this bird on the prowl this morning.

An American Bittern in the reeds at Green Cay Wetlands, Boynton Beach, Florida.

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus). Anauhac National Wildlife Refuge, northwest of High Island abutting East Bay, Chambers County, Texas, USA. Shoveler Pond, coastal marshes and prairies at 2-3 m (6-10 ft) elevation.

American Bittern on the hunt again

American Bittern swallowing Crayfish

American Bittern Eating a Crayfish at Circle B Ranch Reserve, Polk County Florida

An American Bittern in the reeds at Green Cay Wetlands, Boynton Beach, Florida.

I came across this bird the day before in the same location. That was the first time I had ever seen the bird. On this day I was more prepared for its explosive escape.

My first American Bittern (lifer #217), seen at the Arcata Marsh.

Fishing from a beaver lodge

American Bittern @ Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge

American Bittern @ Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge

American Bittern @ Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge