This year, it has taken lots of effort to see North America's smallest heron. It was all well worth it in the end! I realise how lucky I was last year.

Protection:

The Least Bittern is protected under Ontario’s Endangered Species Act. This species also receives protection under the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act.

What You Can Do to Help the Least Bittern:

The Ministry of Natural Resources tracks species at risk such as the Least Bittern. You can use a handy online form to report your sightings to the Natural Heritage Information Centre. Photographs with specific locations or mapping coordinates are always helpful. nhic.mnr.gov.on.ca