<i>Botaurus lentiginosus</i> Length: 24-33"
<p>
The American Bittern can be hard to find, especially since it likes to reside
in marshes.
When startled, it points its head straight up, blending with the grasses and
reeds.
Females and males are similar looking.
They eat amphibians, fish, insects and reptiles.
</p>
<p>
The last few years, starting in 2010, one or two of them have
consistently been  seen at Pacific Commons Linear Park in Fremont during
the winter.
</p>