LITTLE BITTEEN. 109 



sight, and also in deceiving the greater number of its 

 enemies, when in an unsheltered spot, by placing itself in a 

 stiff, unnatural position when it perceives the approach of 

 danger, in which it remains so immoveable and for so long 

 a time, that when it is at last obliged to take wing, it 

 flies up with such unexpected noise that the sportsman is 

 generally too much taken by surprise to avail himself of the 

 opportunity of firing, until the bird has attained too great 

 a distance to be shot; and when concealed among reeds, 

 rushes, or other herbage, it is with the greatest difficulty 

 that it is made to start; and to effect this purpose fre- 

 quently requires much caution and perseverance. The best 

 time to get a sight of the Little Bittern is towards the 

 evening, owing to its habit of coming forth of its own 

 accord at that time; but to reach, unperceived, a hiding-place 

 for the purpose of lying in wait, the greatest caution is 

 required when approaching the spot supposed to be frequented 

 by this species. 



The flight of the Little Bittern is different from that of 

 others of its family, being performed with stronger and 

 quicker motions of the wings. It does not fly high in the 

 air during the day, but only high enough, in general, to 

 clear the vegetation among which it resides. When in the 

 act of taking flight, this Bittern flutters quickly with its 

 wings; but when alighting it throws itself, as it were, to 

 the earth; only breaking its fall when close to the ground, 

 by expanding the wings.' 



This species, as just shewn, is a good climber, and ascends 

 upright objects with great ease. It walks about, Audubon 

 says, with the head drawn closely in, and without shewing 

 any portion of the neck. 



The bird is capable of being tamed, especially if taken 

 young, but only with much trouble. It is described as being 

 very amusing, assuming various grotesque attitudes. It is 

 bold, fierce, and courageous, and quick in its movements. If 

 attacked it defends itself ably with its pointed beak, aiming 

 at the eyes of its assailant, or other undefended parts 'unde 

 nisi intus datum?' It is capable of being kept in confinement. 



The Little Bittern feeds by night, and remains still during 

 the day in the cover afforded by the water plants that grow 

 in the situations which it frequents. Its food consists of fish, 

 frogs, and other reptiles, to which some have added molluscous 

 animals and insects; indeed, Audubon says, that tame ones are 



