Least Bittern

Least Bittern

Ixobrychus exilis

Geographic Distribution

Quick Facts

Size
28 - 35 cm
Weight
60 - 120 g
Diet
Fish (small fish, minnows), Insects (dragonflies, damselflies), Small crustaceans (crayfish, snails)

Habitat

Freshwater wetlandsBrackish wetlandsMarshesSwampsMangrove forests

Behavior

  • Forages for food in dense vegetation, using its sharp, pointed beak
  • Engages in social behavior, often found in pairs or small family groups
  • Breeds in dense vegetation, with females laying 2-5 eggs
  • Both parents care for young, which leave the nest after approximately 20-25 days