Identification - It is quite secretive and difficult to spot and is usually heard before it is seen. It is about the size of a small goose and has streaked, rich-brown plumage, a long neck, and a long, pointed bill. Look for the black neck stripe on each side of its neck and, in flight, the dark flight feathers. Sexes are alike.
Morsels - To hide, the American Bittern stands motionless amongst the cattails, its bill pointing straight up, and blends perfectly into the surrounding marsh. To complete the camouflage, it will even sway with the vegetation as the plants move in the wind.
