Black Bittern

The black bittern, known scientifically as Ixobrychus flavicollis, is a rather imposing figure among its genus. Standing at 58 cm in length, it is the largest bittern within the Ixobrychus family. This bird is adorned with a uniform black plumage on its upper parts and a contrasting yellow on the sides of its neck. Below, it is a paler whitish hue, intricately streaked with brown. The juvenile mirrors the adult in pattern but presents in a dark brown shade rather than black.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the black bittern, look for its long neck and yellow bill, which are distinctive features. In flight, the all-black upperparts are a giveaway, despite the bird's preference for a reed bed habitat where it can be quite elusive.

Habitat

The black bittern is most at home within the dense reed beds that provide both shelter and hunting grounds.

Distribution

This species has a broad range, breeding across tropical Asia from Pakistan and India, stretching through Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and reaching as far as China, Indonesia, and Australia. While largely sedentary, some populations in the northern regions may migrate over short distances.

Behaviour

The black bittern leads a skulking lifestyle, often remaining hidden within its reed bed environment. However, it does take to the wing more frequently than one might expect, offering glimpses of its unmistakable black upperparts.

Breeding

Reed beds serve not only as the black bittern's habitat but also as its breeding ground. The birds construct their nests as platforms of reeds, sometimes opting for shrubs or trees. A typical clutch consists of three to five eggs.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the black bittern is quite varied, including insects, fish, and amphibians, which it hunts within its wetland abode.

Conservation status

Australia

In Australia, the black bittern is not currently recognized as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

State of Victoria, Australia

However, in the State of Victoria, the black bittern is listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (1988). Despite this designation, an Action Statement for its recovery and management has yet to be prepared. The 2007 advisory list of threatened vertebrate fauna in Victoria marks the black bittern as vulnerable.