Editor’s Note: The American bittern is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
An American bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) was discovered lying on its side and unresponsive on a sandbar. Cold, wet, and covered in sand, the bird was quickly transported to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) for emergency care.
On presentation, the bittern was profoundly emaciated, severely dehydrated, and neurologically depressed. Given its mentation and body condition, red tide toxicosis was strongly suspected. Brevetoxins associated with harmful algal blooms can disrupt neurologic function, leading to weakness, incoordination, and altered awareness.
Although red tide blooms are often seasonal, we are unfortunately still seeing lingering impacts from this past fall. The brevetoxins produced during red tide events bioaccumulate in fatty tissues, so all it can take is ingesting just one more toxin-filled fish, and a bird can be fatally poisoned. Without rapid treatment, such as lipid emulsion therapy, these toxins remain in the body’s fat stores, continuing to affect the nervous system and overall health.
The patient was immediately started on aggressive supportive care, including fluid therapy to correct dehydration, intralipid therapy to help bind circulating toxins, and assisted nutritional support to address significant caloric deficits. Over the following days, the bittern showed steady improvement. Its mentation normalized, its strength returned, and it began eating independently. We are thrilled to share that this remarkable bird was successfully released a few days ago.
American bitterns are marsh-dwelling, carnivorous herons with thick necks, stocky bodies, and beautifully streaked brown camouflage. Solitary by nature, they are more often heard than seen, known for their distinctive booming mating call. They rely on healthy marsh ecosystems to ambush amphibians, small mammals, fish, reptiles, and insects. When threatened, they point their bill skyward and gently sway, perfectly mimicking the surrounding reeds.
This species is among many that depend on Florida’s delicate marsh ecosystems. During the winter months, American bitterns migrate to the Gulf Coast, attracted by warmer temperatures and abundant prey. Preserving these wetlands is crucial not only for iconic landscapes such as the Everglades but also for the countless species that depend on them.
Leave a Comment