Cinnamon Bittern

The Cinnamon Bittern, or Chestnut Bittern, is a small heron of the genus Ixobrychus. With a length of 38 cm, it is one of the larger members of its genus. The male is adorned with a uniform cinnamon hue on its upper parts and a buff color below, while the female displays a brown back and crown. Juveniles resemble females but are distinguished by heavy streaking below.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Cinnamon Bittern, look for its short neck and longish bill. Males are a consistent cinnamon color above, with buff underparts. Females and juveniles can be identified by their brown backs and crowns, with juveniles exhibiting additional streaking below. In their characteristic on-guard posture, they stretch their necks perpendicularly and point their bills skyward, blending seamlessly into the reeds.

Habitat

This species thrives in reed beds, which provide both the shelter and the breeding grounds necessary for their survival.

Distribution

The Cinnamon Bittern boasts an extensive range across tropical and subtropical Asia, from India to China and Indonesia. Some northern populations migrate short distances, and vagrants have been spotted as far afield as Micronesia and the Seychelles.

Behaviour

Skulking by nature, the Cinnamon Bittern is elusive, often remaining hidden within reed beds. They emerge at dusk to forage, moving with a stealth reminiscent of a cat as they hunt for prey.

Song & Calls

The genus name Ixobrychus is derived from Ancient Greek, meaning a reed-like plant and to bellow, hinting at the vocal nature of these birds within their marshy habitats.

Breeding

Breeding within the sanctuary of reed beds, the Cinnamon Bittern constructs platforms of reeds in shrubs to lay its clutch of four to six eggs.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Cinnamon Bittern consists of insects, fish, and amphibians, which they hunt for during the twilight hours.

Conservation status

The Cinnamon Bittern is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with global population estimates ranging from 130,000 to 2,000,000 individuals.