Bird Gallery Index

American Bittern images © Helen Baines

Family: (Ardeidae) Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns

Preferred Habitat: Fresh and saltwater marshes

Seasonal Occurrence: Common fall through spring. Less common in summer.

Notes: Although fairly common, the American Bittern is so secretive that it's difficult to spot. It is a master of camouflage and disguises its presence in marshes by holding its bill upright and swaying gently among the reeds. Best times to look for it are early in the morning and at dusk when it is actively foraging. Little is known about the American Bittern's behavior and life history because it is such a difficult subject to study. There is some concern that numbers are decreasing due to loss of marsh habitats. Good areas to look for American Bitterns include Horseshoe Marsh and Brazos Bend State Park.
- Susan Billetdeaux