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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