Australasian Bittern
Where to spot
Dense freshwater wetlands, reedbeds, and swamps across Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and parts of New Guinea.
How to spot
Listen for its booming call. Look for its streaky brown camouflage as it stands motionless in dense reeds, often with its bill pointed skyward. Requires great patience.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed at dawn or dusk when it is most active, or during the breeding season (spring/summer) when males call.
Where to spot
Dense freshwater wetlands, reedbeds, and swamps across Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and parts of New Guinea.
How to spot
Listen for its booming call. Look for its streaky brown camouflage as it stands motionless in dense reeds, often with its bill pointed skyward. Requires great patience.
When to spot
Year-round. Best observed at dawn or dusk when it is most active, or during the breeding season (spring/summer) when males call.
This bittern has a deep, booming call that carries a long distance, often the first indication of its presence in dense wetlands, but the bird itself is rarely seen.