Photographing Bitterns–Behavior, Habitat, and Locating

American Bittern Closeup

American Bittern–Laccasine NWR

On our photo tours, we are occasionally able to photograph Least or American Bitterns. Photographing these elusive birds is a special treat. Bitterns are secretive, well-camouflaged members of the heron family that inhabit Louisiana’s wetlands. Two species can be found in the state: the American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), which is more widespread but difficult to spot, and the Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), a smaller and more agile species that is even harder to detect. Both species rely on their unique behaviors and natural environments to remain hidden from predators and observers alike.

Behavior

Camouflage

Bitterns are masters of concealment, relying on their natural colors and behaviors to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

  • Motionless Stance: When threatened or approached, bitterns freeze in place, making them almost invisible among reeds and tall grasses.

  • Bill Upward Posture: Bitterns will often stretch their necks and point their bills straight upward, mimicking the vertical lines of surrounding vegetation.

American Bittern with its Bill for camouflage

American Bittern with its Bill up

Morning & Evening Activity

Bitterns are most active during the early morning and late evening hours. These are the best times to observe and photograph them, as they emerge from their cover to hunt for fish, amphibians, and insects.

Least Bittern – The Agile Hunter

The Least Bittern is smaller and more maneuverable than its larger relative. Unlike most herons, it often climbs among reeds and grasps stems with its long toes, moving through dense vegetation rather than wading in open water. This allows it to stay hidden while foraging.

American Bittern – The Solitary Lurker

The American Bittern is a more solitary bird, preferring to hunt alone in marshy environments. Its deep, resonant call, often described as a "pump-er-lunk" sound, is one of the few ways to detect its presence in the wild.

Lifespan

  • American Bittern: Typically lives around 8 years in the wild.

  • Least Bittern: Has a shorter lifespan, averaging 5 to 6 years.

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus)

An American Bittern on its Nest

An American Bittern on its Nest
Lake Martin Louisiana

The American Bittern is more commonly found in Louisiana during the cooler months.

Seasonal Presence

  • October–November: Arrival for the winter season.

  • Breeding: Rare in Louisiana, though some individuals may remain year-round in favorable habitats.

Habitat

American Bitterns favor areas with thick vegetation and stable water levels, including:

  • Freshwater cattail marshes, reeds, and bulrushes – These provide cover for foraging and nesting.

  • Wetlands with thick emergent vegetation – They rely on these areas for concealment.

  • Cypress-tupelo swamps with a grassy understory – Found along the edges of wooded wetlands.

Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis)

Least Bittern at Miller’s Lake

Least Bittern at Miller’s Lake

The Least Bittern is smaller, more agile, and more likely to breed in Louisiana.

Seasonal Presence

  • Mixed Migration Patterns: Some individuals remain in Louisiana year-round, while others migrate south for the winter.

  • Spring Arrival (March–April): Many arrive in early spring to establish breeding territories.

  • Fall Departure (September–October): Some begin migrating to warmer regions.

Breeding in Louisiana

Unlike the American Bittern, the Least Bittern regularly breeds in Louisiana’s wetlands. Their nests are often hidden in dense reeds and marsh vegetation, making them difficult to spot.

Habitat

Least Bittern on Reeds at Miller’s Lake

Least Bittern on Reeds at Miller’s Lake

  • Clinging to reeds in dense vegetation – Rather than standing in open water, they maneuver through thick marsh plants.

  • Wetland edges with shallow water – Prime locations for feeding and nesting.

Places to Photograph Bitterns in Louisiana

For those hoping to capture images of these elusive birds, the following locations provide the best opportunities:

  • Miller’s Lake – A great spot for marsh bird photography, especially in the spring.

  • Lake Martin – Home to a variety of wetland birds, including both species of bittern.

  • Henderson Swamp – Dense vegetation offers a good chance of spotting Least Bitterns.

  • Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) – Known for its extensive freshwater marshes, attracting wintering American Bitterns.

  • Cameron Prairie NWR – Offers a mix of brackish and freshwater marshes, ideal for both species.

Bitterns may be difficult to spot, but with patience, careful observation, and the right habitat conditions, they can be found and photographed throughout Louisiana’s wetlands.