American Bittern vs Pinnated Bittern
Botaurus lentiginosus compared with Botaurus pinnatus
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | American Bittern | Pinnated Bittern |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Botaurus lentiginosus | Botaurus pinnatus |
| Order | Pelecaniformes | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae | Ardeidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 54.2 cm (21.3 in) | 59.6 cm (23.5 in) |
| Weight | 734.75 g (25.92 oz) | 775.0 g (27.34 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 2-7 | 2-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
American Bittern
Pinnated Bittern
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.
Pinnated Bittern
The Pinnated Bittern (Botaurus pinnatus) is a large, secretive heron of the family Ardeidae found in Central and South America. Like all members of the genus Botaurus, it is heavily streaked in brown, buff, and black, with pale underparts streaked dark brown and a distinctive pattern of darker markings along the neck sides. The name 'pinnated' refers to the pronounced neck and breast feathers that can be raised into a display or threat posture. Adults measure 58–75 cm in length, …