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Australasian bitterns (Botaurus stellaris poiciloptilus) were studied in the Whangamarino wetlands in the autumn and winter of 1986. A seasonal difference in the time of feeding was noted, as well as a local movement to feeding grounds. A decrease in the number of birds seen in the study area in winter seemed to be related to the duck hunting season and high water levels. A mixture of water purslane and willow weed on a wet substrate was the preferred habitat. “Surveillance posture” seems a better description of the traditional “freeze” behaviour. The birds gave this response even when there was no apparent danger.