Schrenck's Bittern
NameSchrenck's Bittern
Common NameSchrenck's Bittern
Scientific NameIxobrychus eurhythmus
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)115
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive rich chestnut-brown back and wings, a dark cap, and pale buffy underparts with subtle streaking. Females and juveniles are browner overall with more extensive streaking on the underparts and back. The bill is yellowish with a dark culmen, and legs are greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but males produce a deep, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa' call during the breeding season.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in eastern Asia, including parts of China, Korea, Japan, and the Russian Far East. It migrates south to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia, for the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Secretive behavior, Chestnut-brown back (males), Streaked underparts, Yellowish bill, Greenish-yellow legs
Description
Schrenck's Bittern is a small, secretive heron typically found in dense wetland vegetation. It often stands motionless, camouflaged by its plumage, waiting to ambush small aquatic prey.
