Behind the Scenes - I. " You Never Know I'm Here"

The other morning at Bear River MBR, I had the pleasure of meeting one of nature’s greatest comedians—the American Bittern I met at the same spot last year, who certainly knew how to strike a pose. 

Out of the tall grass, a long neck suddenly uncoiled, followed by a curious pair of eyes. The Bittern had clearly spotted me—but instead of flying away, he froze. 

He stretched out his long neck, as if to say,“Who, me? I’m just another stalk of grass, nothing to see here!” For a bird known for its camouflage skills, I think he overdid it but I am grateful for his performance.

Generally, life is good.

American Bittern - I.

 

American Bitterns are solitary birds and usually well-hidden and difficult to spot. 

When I saw this Bittern early this morning on the Bear River MBR, I thought I was imagining it but the Bittern was real standing motionless in the tall grass.

After a while, the sun came out from behind the clouds, and the swamp turned golden. The Bittern sank down into the grass exposing only its head and neck. The bird was clearly enjoying the early morning warmth.

The American Bittern is a member of the heron family and it is a  migratory bird. They breed in Utah swamps and spend winter where there is open water.

Generally, life is good. 

to be continued