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Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery
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Because of the loss of wetland habitats, American bitterns are uncommon, but have been recorded in Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky, Summit, Portage, Trumbull, Mahoning, Vinton, and Seneca counties. The Ohio Division of Wildlife lists the bittern as an endangered species.
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American Bittern
Botaurus lentiginosus
At-a-Glance
• Peak Breeding Activity: May-June
• Incubation: 24-28 days
• Typical Foods: insects, amphibians, crayfish, small fish, and mammals
• Ohio Status: Endangered
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Description
American bitterns are a medium-sized, stocky, well- camouflaged heron. They have a thick neck and bill and are colored brown and tan with white stripes. They are about 24-33 inches tall and like to keep hidden in cover. Males and females look alike.
Habitat and Habits
Nesting bitterns are very secretive and prefer large undisturbed wetlands that have scattered small pools amongst the dense vegetation. They occasionally occupy bogs, large wet meadows, and dense shrubby swamps. Bitterns have the nickname "thunder-pumper" because of the bizzare song, which sounds like a pump being run underwater. This sound carries great disances, and is frequently made at night. When surprised, bitterns often attempt to camouflage themselves. Holding their neck and bill stiffly erect, they blend remarkably well with the cattails and other plants.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Within Ohio, nesting activities are initiated during May, and eggs are found between mid-May and mid-June. The nests of American bitterns are usually platforms composed of dead vegetation over shallow water. Most eggs hatch by the end of June, and recently fledged young normally appear by late July. |
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