American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus). This species is a medium-sized, brown heron that inhabits freshwater and brackish marshes and marshy lake shores. It is secretive, preferring to freeze and trust its concealing coloration when approached rather than flush like other herons. When an observer is nearby it will often raise its head, point its bill skyward, and sway slowly from side to side, as if imitating waving reeds. If an observer gets too close the bittern will fly off, uttering a low barking call. Belchertown, Massachusetts.