Happy hour with a resident bittern :-)

I had heard booming on my first full day ever at Minsmere and went to the Island Mere hide for a last look before calling it a day on Monday. The small group of us there were so lucky as out came the  most pos-ey bittern I have ever seen... not difficult as this is the ONLY bittern I have ever seen. For an hour, it delighted us by wandering through the cut reeds - striking admirable poses and holding still long enough to get its photo taken. It caught four fish as we watched and made great show of how hard it was to handle such a big catch - a true fisherman or woman! A magical hour - and here is just one of the photos that will bring back happy memories and encourage a return visit. 

Thanks Minsmere and Happy 70th - and yes, many happy returns!