Distribution Map
Black-backed Bittern
Botaurus dubius
EndemicStatus
RareRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Australian Black-backed bittern, also known as the Australian Little Bittern (Botaurus dubius) is Australia’s smallest heron and a master of camouflage in dense reedbeds and freshwater swamps. This elusive wetland bird is rarely seen in the open, preferring to stay hidden among tall reeds and sedges in eastern and southeastern Australia.
Fun Facts
When threatened, they can compress their bodies to squeeze between reed stems, making them nearly invisible.
1. Male has a glossy black back and chestnut neck
2. Pale buff wing patches visible in flight
3. Prefers to clamber and forage low among dense reedbeds
These bitterns are solitary hunters, feeding on fish, frogs, and freshwater crayfish by standing motionless or stalking prey among reeds. Breeding occurs mainly from October to January. Nests are flimsy platforms built deep in reedbeds, where females lay 3–4 eggs. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties. The species is mostly crepuscular, foraging at dawn and dusk, and is rarely seen in the open.
Black-backed Bitterns inhabit dense reedbeds and freshwater swamps across eastern and southeastern Australia, especially where tall bulrushes or sedges grow. They are most active at dawn and dusk, often remaining hidden during the day. Listen for their distinctive growling bark from deep within the vegetation, and look for subtle movement low among the reeds rather than in open water.
Physical Attributes
Height
31 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds68%
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