Herons · Pelicans and herons
Eurasian Bittern
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Botaurus stellaris
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Voice
Call
Song
Song
How to recognize it
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Body length 69–81 cm; males larger than females
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Buff-brown plumage with dark bars and streaks
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When disturbed, freezes among reeds with bill pointing upward
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In the breeding season, male gives a deep booming call, "boom"
About the species
Among the reeds, the Eurasian Bittern’s buffy-brown plumage is crossed with dark bars and streaks, blending with dry stems. Its crown is black, while the sides of its neck are tawny and finely marked; a pale stripe above each eye adds a lighter line to its face. In flight, its broad, rounded wings show the same rusty-brown and black pattern.
Usually alone, it moves slowly through the reeds or waits motionless at the water’s edge, then freezes with its bill pointing straight up if disturbed. In spring, males call after dark with a deep, far-carrying “booom,” made by forcing air from the oesophagus.
It lives in reed beds and marshes beside lakes, lagoons, and slow rivers, hunting along shallow edges for fish, frogs, insects, and small mammals. Northern populations generally move south or west for winter, though some stay in the same area year-round.
Where to find
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At a reed-fringed lake or slow river on calm spring nights, listen for the male's deep booming courtship call.
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In shallow water along reed margins, watch for slow, stealthy steps and long motionless pauses while hunting.
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In severe winter weather, look beside the water near dense cover, where the Eurasian Bittern may sometimes stand in the open.
