Local Patch - 22/12/10 - Bittern !

The second patch 'tick' in ten days was discovered this afternoon on the only unfrozen patch of water for miles around - a Bittern ! As far as I can tell this is a site first, and just emphasizes how difficult it is for birds in the current deep freeze the UK is experiencing this winter. Bitterns have been discovered wintering in Bedfordshire for a number of years - mainly in the old Marston Vale brick pits, but to see one on the local patch is truly remarkable.

The image was taken under extreme conditions; distance - all birds are under pressure in the cold spell, so stalking this bird was not an option; light - fifteen minutes before sunset. The laying snow helps here, as what light remains is reflected.

Bittern
Dstw
22/12/10

Booming 'ell !

Four Bittern have been seen at Brogborough Lake as the deep-freeze continues. This one flew passed the gull-watch point while we were 'scoping another on the other side of the lake. The lake is 80% iced up, which means the birds are more mobile and fairly easy to see as they search for food. A hungry Red Fox hunted the reed beds, a female Scaup was still present, and a couple of Water Rail were active along the shore.