LITTLE BITTERN. 1 63 



breaking its fall, when close to the ground, by expanding 

 its wings. 



The Little Bittern is very artful in keeping itself out of 

 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 oppor- 

 tunity 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 frequently 

 requires much exertion and perseverance. 



The best time to get a sight of the Little Bittern is to- 

 wards 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 nature of the Little Bittern is much in unison with 

 that of the larger species, being fierce, courageous, and very 

 quick in its movements, and, when hard-pressed, fighting to 

 the last for its life ; in which case the eyes and exposed parts 

 of its opponent are sure to receive the blows of its beak, 

 aimed with incredible precision. 



The call or cry produced by the male bird resembles that 

 of the Bittern greatly, but is by far weaker in comparison. 



The little Bittern is very amusing when tame, owing to 

 its various grotesque attitudes ; but much trouble is required 

 in taming it, and it can only be done when very young. 



It has been stated that the Little Bittern feeds principally 

 upon water-insects ; but we are assured by a very trustworthy 



