American Bittern vs Pied Heron

Botaurus lentiginosus compared with Egretta picata

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute American Bittern Pied Heron
Scientific Name Botaurus lentiginosus Egretta picata
Order Pelecaniformes Pelecaniformes
Family Ardeidae Ardeidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern
Length — —
Wingspan 54.2 cm (21.3 in) 45.2 cm (17.8 in)
Weight 734.75 g (25.92 oz) 291.0 g (10.26 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 2-7 2-4
Population Trend — —

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

American Bittern only

None

Pied Heron only

Conservation Status

Least Concern

American Bittern

Least Concern

Pied 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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