Eurasian Bittern at Minsmere

Eurasian Bittern at Minsmere

Eurasian Bittern is not an easy bird to see well in its reed bed habitat. It was late afternoon and we were in a hide at RSPB Minsmere when this Eurasian Bittern walked out of the reed bed. At first the Bittern was back lit by the setting sun but as it walked slowly towards us, the lighting improved both for viewing and photographing the bird. For the next half hour, this amazing bird stayed in front of the hide and allowed me to take a series of photos. I have been fortunate to experience some great wildlife moments but seeing a Eurasian Bittern in full view was one that I will always remember.

Country: UK
Location: Minsmere RSPB Reserve
Family: Herons, Bitterns (Ardeidae)
Species: Eurasian Bittern (Botaurus stellaris)
Date taken: 25/03/2009