[obol] American Bittern display at Ridgefield

[gneavoll at comcast.net]

Witnessed remarkable display by one of three AMERICAN BITTERNS at Ridgefield NWR (Rest Lake, viewed from blind) this week (Wednesday, 9/12/07). Bird first appeared to be large yellowish-brown oval to left of an adult bittern acting very normally. The "oval" eventually turned, revealing its distinctly bittern profile, then huge white billows seemed to explode from both sides of the head, expanding over upper back. The white throat feathers also appeared to burgeon outward as bird lifted its head. 

A drab marsh bird became, for a few moments, a study largely in white.

A third American Bittern emerged before long from grass to left of displaying bird. It walked through grass in front of latter, keeping low. Latter then dropped its ruffs - if this is what they may be called - and assumed normal behavior and appearance. No vocalization heard in what was apparently a late nuptial display - or a young male "practicing"?

At least four GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE also on lake: large, dark heads and necks; large bills with minimal white frontal feathering; seemingly larger overall than usual White-fronts (elgasi race?).

Counted 72 GREAT BLUE HERONS (ad. and imm.) in portion of lake to left of blind.

George Neavoll
S.W. Portland