Bittern or green heron?

ran

I can't distinguish from my books which this is any help appreciated.
Thanks randall

IraRunyan

That is a Green Heron..........

ran

Thanks Ira, that was my first thought also,but after closer scrutiny and reading, I'm leaning toward the Least Bittern , because it doesn't have a dark head and no streaks and was very reluctant to fly.

IraRunyan

Ran, your photo is of a Green Heron. To show you the difference, here are two photos of Least Bitterns.

ran

And good photos they are Ira thanks ,better than I was able to find on the INTERNET or National Audubon or National Geo, I can quickly see the brown goes from the head down into the belie.
Thanks Ira we don't get many greenies up here let alone the Bittern.