The Least Bittern is the secret agent of the marsh, tiny and sneaky with stripy plumage that lets it vanish into reeds like a feathered magician. When startled, it strikes a comical pose, pointing its bill skyward and freezing—because if you can’t see me, I can’t see you, right? Despite its size, it’s a pro at snagging fish and insects while tiptoeing through cattails like a stealthy ballet dancer.