Bittern Season

This spring was a little different for me than the last few. Weather-related conditions meant some birds changed their typical patterns. Sandhill Cranes did not nest in the same spots they have for the past 3 springs. Very high water levels flooded their usual nest sites in early-mid April when they typically initiate egg laying. Most pairs seem to have moved into other parts of the Marsh or on to other wetlands. I haven’t heard their calls as much as in other years. I decided to pursue other possibilities once I discovered this. I approach wildlife photography in a couple of different ways. The way I photograph most often is opportunistic. I head to a specific area, usually based upon lighting and habitat, and wait to see who’s around. The other way involves going to an area to pursue a species or a single bird within their territories. I often come across wildlife while using the first approach and then return later to photograph specific individuals. I find both methods highly enjoyable, though the second one often brings me a deeper sense of satisfaction. It’s rewarding to be in relationship with the animals, learn their habits and visit them more than once. I came across this American Bittern and their mate while paddling through the Marsh a few weeks back. I saw them last year at the same location. Both flew off after I startled them that morning. I waited a couple of days then returned. They weren’t there that morning so I returned a few days later and approached very quietly by canoe. As I passed the spot and was circling back for a better angle, this bittern called. The clacking of bittern bills to gulp air prior to calling alerted me they were close. Bitterns are great ventriloquists. Their location in the Marsh is hard to pinpoint by calls alone. The gulping sounds help. They don’t carry the way a call does. I spent an hour inching forward. Suddenly, they appeared on a hummock for a few minutes before retreating back into the cattails and grasses. They soon figured something was up and flew off in pursuit of a more private hangout.