It’s always a thrill to spot an American Bittern! If you have the good fortune to encounter one at all, it is usually well-camouflaged – and it’s often likely to disappear from view quickly.
When disturbed, the Bittern will frequently elongate his neck and point his head skyward, as if trying to blend in even more with the reeds.
This one seemed quite unperturbed as he foraged very slowly in a clearing on a small island across the pond from the boardwalk. Shhhh….he didn’t even know we were looking!
These “secretive” birds make the most curious, “loud pumping sound – oong-KA-chunk!”, especially during breeding season (Audubon Field Guide to Birds, Eastern Region, p. 365). Listen to this audio from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for a sample!
Birder's Journey 
Nice! A tough bird to photograph! Well Done!
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Thanks so much. They are difficult enough to find! – someday I hope to get a shot of one in flight.
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A most fascinating and unusual bird. Great spot, great shots, nice job 📸📸
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Thanks, Berny! Yes, this American Bittern did a great job of staying out in the open just long enough to take a few shots.😊
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Well spotted BJ what a gift to see and shoot such an elusive bird. The bittern continues to elude me here in Aus. Maybe next year…
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So true, AB! It really was a gift. Hope they head your way in the coming year.
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Its always a big day when you see one of these, and especially when you get a photo as sharp as yours. Great work.
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Yes, it was a very special moment – and this guy was particularly accommodating to us birders! Thanks very much for your kind words!
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Beautiful shots. I thought I saw my first bittern this summer, turned out to be a young green heron😏
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I remember the first time I saw a half-hidden Green heron, I thought it was a Least Bittern!
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Oh what a treat to get several photos of the A. bittern, BJ! I had the pleasure of seeing one last week while visiting a wetland refuge and I am still treasuring the moments and photos. They are so very very secretive, and camouflaged too — great that you snapped these off.
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The American Bitterns truly are a treat. Glad to hear you had the opportunity recently, too, Jet!
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