American Bittern – Two different days

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The pretty American Bittern above was clearly on a mission last week, stalking very close to the boardwalk.  As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, this large Bittern is quite elusive, “uncommon and very inconspicuous,” (The Sibley Guide to Birds, 2nd Ed.), so it’s always exciting to see one in full view, right near by.

They can be nearly invisible when standing at a distance in the reeds. David Sibley talks about how the American Bittern’s “cryptically patterned plumage” (The Sibley Guide to Bird Life and Behavior), serves as camouflage to protect it from predators.
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A few days later,  I saw this encounter above – the Bittern was in the exact same spot as before, near the boardwalk, tugging with all his might on this snake in the marsh.  A small crowd gathered to watch the ‘contest’ – bird vs. snake!

High drama in the wetlands~IMG_0626It seemed inconceivable that he couldn’t get a good enough hold on the snake to pull it up completely and devour it.  But, as someone pointed out to me, the snake’s defense is to wind itself extremely tightly around the reeds and hold on for dear life.

To be honest, after watching this struggle for quite a long time, I didn’t have the patience to wait any longer – so I don’t really know who ‘won’ (but I doubt it was the snake!)

20 thoughts on “American Bittern – Two different days

    • Yes….These are two of the best and most popular sites for birding in Florida! Very busy during “the season”, but superb for seeing the large nesting wetland birds from now through at least March. Beautiful the rest of the year too!

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  1. Wow, all the times I have NOT seen the bittern in spite of searching for it, and the few times I have…makes this encounter a truly spectacular event. It’s remarkable that you captured these photos, my friend! 🙂

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