Lucky bit of twitching...

[Mang]

It's not everyday that you see a Bittern!

We live in the Lea Valley in Hertfordshire and there are a few Bittern supporting sites (incl an RSPB reserve). We then went to the hide in the background and saw it move across from one reed bed to another.....and whilst there, blow me, a Smew shows up!

again, this is of two sites locally that support this rare diving Duck...

Whilst we were in the second hide we looked at the hardcore twitchers in the totally wrong place to see the Bittern and probably the Smew too...decided to PMSL as it's quieter than LMAO

When we walked home past them I mentioned the locations to them and several tried to move off in an orderly fashion whilst trying not to look like they were trying to be first off to the hides. Good days viewing/ entertainment I'd say.

I reckon I'd better send that Smew pic in for next years Countryfile calendar[/QUOTE]

 

[mountainm]

It's not everyday that you see a Bittern!

Nice spot! Of course you know why they're rare right?... ahem... "Once bittern, twice shy!"

I'll be here all night, please try the veal...

 

[Andy BB]

Hmmm - bittern pate starter and Diving Duck main course - anyone got recipes?

 

[jungle_re]

Great sightings and good effort to get pics too.
Did you get to hear the Bittern call?

 

[Mang]

Despite the fact that Bitterns are seen in increasing numbers each winter near me I've never heard the boom. Rare birds like buses eh?

 

[robin wood]

Most of the bitterns in the lee Valley come over here for the winter and they boom when breeding.

 

[Barn Owl]

Lucky you mate.