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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