American Bittern vs Reddish Egret

Botaurus lentiginosus compared with Egretta rufescens

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute American Bittern Reddish Egret
Scientific Name Botaurus lentiginosus Egretta rufescens
Order Pelecaniformes Pelecaniformes
Family Ardeidae Ardeidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Near Threatened
Length — —
Wingspan 54.2 cm (21.3 in) 62.6 cm (24.6 in)
Weight 734.75 g (25.92 oz) 616.5 g (21.75 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 2-7 3-4
Population Trend — —

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

American Bittern only

Reddish Egret only

Conservation Status

Least Concern

American Bittern

Near Threatened

Reddish Egret

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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