American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus ), Whitewater Draw Willife Area, Cochise County

This American Bittern was discovered and photographed by David Beaudette on 31 October 2009.

Rare in Cochise County.

Best distinguished from similar immature Night-Herons, by longer bill, dark malar stripe and more complex pattern to upperparts..  In flight, dark flight feathers contrast with the rest of the wing.

31 October 2009, photo by David Beaudette

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer