Dwarf Bittern
NameDwarf Bittern
Common NameDwarf Bittern
Scientific NameIxobrychus sturmii
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey upperparts, head, and neck. The underparts are white with prominent black streaking. The bill is dark, and the lores (area between eye and bill) are greenish-yellow, especially during breeding season. Legs are yellowish-green.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a low, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or a series of croaking notes, often given at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout sub-Saharan Africa, typically in areas with suitable freshwater wetland habitats.
Identifying Featuressmall size for a heron, dark slate-grey upperparts, heavily streaked white underparts, greenish-yellow lores, secretive behavior in dense vegetation
Description
The Dwarf Bittern is a small, secretive heron found in sub-Saharan Africa. It typically inhabits dense freshwater wetlands, hunting small fish and invertebrates. Its dark slate-grey upperparts and heavily streaked underparts provide excellent camouflage.
