True to its name, the Little Bittern is a very small species of bittern. There are 15 species of bittern and perhaps only the Dwarf Bittern is smaller than the Little.
Little Bitterns are widespread, found across parts of Europe, Africa, and western Asia. Northern breeders migrate to southern climes during the winter, while those that breed across Africa remain residents year-round.
Little Bitterns are found in reedy areas; they use reeds for nesting and hunt for prey like fish, insects, and amphibians, from reed perches.
