American Bittern in Sarnia!

We were fortunate to view an American Bittern in Canatara recently. It is smaller than a Great Blue Heron, but larger than a Green Heron.

The streaky, brown and buff heron can materialize among the reeds and disappear just as quickly. We watched it "appear and disappear" as it meandered through a wooded area. The eyes can focus downward, giving the bird's face a comically startled, cross-eyed appearance. This visual orientation presumably enhances the bird's ability to spot and capture prey. The eyes turn orange during breeding season.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Bittern/overview

These stealthy carnivores stand motionless amid tall marsh vegetation, or patiently stalk fish, frogs, and insects.  It was viewed capturing earthworms yesterday.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Bittern/overview

I hope the stop in Canatara provided the food and rest it required to continue its migration journey!