Collection: American Bittern

The American Bittern ( Botaurus lentiginosus ) is an elusive bird of Quebec's marshes. Its striped brown plumage and discreet behavior make it almost invisible in dense vegetation. This solitary bird often adopts an upright posture when threatened, mimicking reeds for camouflage. Active especially at dawn and dusk, it emits a deep, resonant, bellowing song that betrays its presence. The Bittern feeds on fish, amphibians, insects, and small mammals. It is a valuable bioindicator of the quality of wetlands, habitats increasingly threatened by urbanization and pollution. Few are lucky enough to observe it, which makes each encounter memorable. Preserving wetlands is essential to maintain this enigmatic species in Quebec's landscapes. A hidden gem of boreal biodiversity.