adult male, as told by black on back (Texas, USA; 2006-04-11)


Least Bittern
Ixobrychus exilis

Native Range: North America and Latin America

Notes: a small secretive heron that usually remains well hidden in reedy vegetated marshes; bright buffy color is distinctive, as is a large buffy forewing patch especially noticeable in flight.


juvenile,with lighter back and striped neck (California, USA; 2008-07-12)
adult; note also yellowish legs (Texas, USA; 2006-04-11)