American Bittern #14-2257 Release

On Friday, the rehabilitation staff were pleased to note that American Bittern #14-2257 was eating all of the live fish in its temporary “wetlands” in the Center’s aviary. The bittern was perching and hiding, and appeared to be behaving normally for a bittern. The staff increased the number of live fish provided to the bittern – on Saturday, the bird ate 119 fish!

On Sunday, October 19, certified wildlife rehabilitator Amber test-flew the bittern again in the aviary hallway. The bittern flew well, and this time was able to easily gain height during flight. The staff decided to release the bittern that same day. Amber, along with several extern students and volunteers, transported the bittern to a marshy habitat west of Staunton for release. All went well – the bittern flew off beautifully.

Rehabilitator Linda Vetter caught this quick release video of the bittern flying away:

Veterinary extern student Mike Armer caught this amazing slow-motion release video: