Ridgefield Yesterday (what is it)

I was at ridgefield yesterday, there was not much going on. I started my secound loop and found this guy next to the road, what is it?

Larger version:
http://mitch.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p172600395-5.jpg

Excellent capture of an American Bittern. They are fairly active right now often seen along the sloughs working the shoreline for fish, frogs and snakes, also seen in grasses. Their main defense is their camouflage and usually when spotted they will stand in tall grasses with their necks fully extended and beaks pointed toward the sky. Yellow eys and beautiful earth toned markings. They are roughly the size of an "elongated chicken." Nice job, Christopher!

Thanks Craig for your ID and your comments.
Here are a few more;
http://mitch.zenfolio.com/img/v14/p868757141-5.jpg
http://mitch.zenfolio.com/img/v14/p865659472-5.jpg

Nice catch, Christopher. I think the second shot in your second post really highlights the camouflage capabilities of the Bittern. Well done.

Christopher.... nice capture as well... might be a little "hot"..... Nik (software) Viveza on this would be great
JG

Very nice composition Christopher. Looks like you were being carefully watched by the Bittern here.