Cinnamon Bittern
NameCinnamon Bittern
Common NameCinnamon Bittern
Scientific NameIxobrychus cinnamomeus
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)51
Length (cm)39.5
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsAdult males are uniformly cinnamon-rufous on the upperparts and underparts, with a slightly darker crown. Females are duller brown and streaked on the underparts and neck. Juveniles resemble females. They have a yellowish bill, often with a darker culmen, and yellowish-green legs.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a deep, booming 'croo-croo-croo' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa' call, particularly during the breeding season, as well as various croaks and grunts.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical and subtropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Southeast Asia to China, Japan, and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Uniform cinnamon-rufous plumage (males), Long, pointed yellowish bill, Secretive behavior in dense vegetation, Yellowish-green legs
Description
The Cinnamon Bittern is a small, secretive heron found in dense wetland vegetation. Males are characterized by their striking uniform cinnamon-rufous plumage, while females are duller and streaked. They typically hunt small aquatic prey by standing motionless.
