American Bittern - Ross Feldner Unlike Victorian era children, this bird is most often heard and not seen. One of the great camouflage experts, this shy bird is also known for its booming call that resembles a far away foghorn. The low-pitched call carries over long distances and allows them to communicate while remaining hidden. American Bitterns prefer fresh water wetlands with tall vegetation. They have adapted so well to this environment that when they feel threatened they will perform what’s called “bittering,” where they look skyward and stretch out their necks mimicking the reeds and marsh plants around them. Patient hunters, they stand motionless in tall marsh vegetation stalking fish, frogs, salamanders, water snakes, crayfish and even dragonflies. The American Bittern is listed as endangered in many states mostly due to habitat loss and pollution. | |
