Range
They winter in the southern U.S. down to Mexico and the Caribbean. They breed in summer in wetlands across most of the U.S. and Canada.
Habitat
They are found in marshy wetlands.
Body Traits
They are mottled brown with a black cheek streak and long, pointed beak. They can be more than 2 feet tall.
Habits
They are very shy and hide in tall plants, standing with head pointed up to blend in with the reeds. They are active at night (nocturnal). They live alone.
Diet
They eat mostly fish or other wetland life, like frogs, crabs and insects.
Reproduction
They lay 4-6 eggs.
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vetebrata
Class: Aves
Order: Pelicaniformes
Family: Ardeidae
Genus: Botaurus
Species: B. lentiginosus