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"Botaurus. Bittern. Bill moderately longer than head, shorter than tarsus, which is shorter than middle toe and claw. tarsus broadly scutellate in front. No crests or peculiar dorsal plumes; neck-feathers long and loose; plumage blended, spotty and streaky. Neck in part bare behind. Sexes and young alike." Elliot Coues, 1884

Bittern

"Botaurus. Bittern. Bill moderately longer than head, shorter than tarsus, which is shorter than middle…

"Botaurus. Bittern. Bill moderately longer than head, shorter than tarsus, which is shorter than middle toe and claw." Elliot Coues, 1884

The Bill of a Bittern

"Botaurus. Bittern. Bill moderately longer than head, shorter than tarsus, which is shorter than middle…