Virginian Barrier Islands and Coastal Marshes

Least bittern lingers late at Mackay Island refuge

October 23, 2026

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was recorded at Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge on 2026-10-10, near the end of this species' season from early April to mid-October.¹ This small heron is a summer breeder at Mackay Island's Great Marsh, staging before southward departure.¹

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More about Least Bittern

Least bittern found at E Kingsley St wetland

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recorded 2026-09-11 at 721 E Kingsley St, confirmed by regional eBird reviewers. This smallest heron in the Americas inhabits dense wetland vegetation and is present in the area through late summer and early fall breeding season.