American Bittern vs Tricolored Heron

Botaurus lentiginosus compared with Egretta tricolor

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute American Bittern Tricolored Heron
Scientific Name Botaurus lentiginosus Egretta tricolor
Order Pelecaniformes Pelecaniformes
Family Ardeidae Ardeidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern
Length — —
Wingspan 54.2 cm (21.3 in) 49.8 cm (19.6 in)
Weight 734.75 g (25.92 oz) 317.0 g (11.18 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 2-7 3-5
Population Trend — —

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

American Bittern only

Tricolored Heron only

Conservation Status

Least Concern

American Bittern

Least Concern

Tricolored Heron

About These Birds

American Bittern

The American Bittern is a large heron weighing about 735 g with a 54.2 cm wingspan, inhabiting freshwater marshes and reed beds across North America. When threatened, it freezes with bill pointed skyward, its streaked brown plumage blending remarkably with marsh vegetation.

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