Yesterday, a beautiful sunny day with barely a cloud in the sky, we visited the RSPB Valley Wetlands Reserve in Anglesey, which is directly opposite the RAF base from where a different species of bird is frequently seen and heard on low-flying practice. The reserve has several miles of pathways through heather and gorse, round countless reed fringed lakes and limestone crags. It is one of the best places for wildlife in the UK and a site of Special Scientific Interest. The website information mentions a good variety of species.
The lakes are home to wildfowl all year round and I was hoping to see tufted ducks, pochards, shovelers and grebes amongst others, and maybe even a water rail!!! From the top of one of the crags I spied a lake with lots of birds swimming about. The lake was completely surrounded by reed beds making it difficult to get close to the water’s edge and my camera set up isn’t good enough for long distance photography from the top of the crag, so I was keen to be as close as I could. I could see a narrow break in the reeds so we set off in the general direction of this gap, and I was pleased to note it was a narrow path leading down to the water.
I stepped cautiously down the path between the reeds until I reached the water. I stopped and looked to my left at which point I was stunned into total paralysis. Looking up at me, just 2 feet away, was a BITTERN. He was clearly as stunned as I was and we had a few moments of eyeballing each other before he vanished. It was a moment I shall never forget, but despite my camera being ready and hung round my neck I was incapable of even pointing it. He was so close to me I could have reached down and stroked him.
My bird book says: “it is a lucky birdwatcher who sees a bittern on the ground”. Lucky Sparrow. Shame about the lack of photographic evidence!
Cheers, Linda.
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How fantastic and I know the feeling well I have frozen on many occasions
Of all creatures, man is the most detestable, he is the only creature that inflicts pain for sport, knowing it to be pain. ~ Mark Twain
Thats fantastic Sparrow .. Its times like that , That make birdwatching all the more special.
Cheers
AL
If its no fun Yer no doin it right!
Thanks for sharing your delightful story. Well done you I am very envious.
Sarah
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn...
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Hi Sparrow
Great report and it was a beautiful day to go birding all over the UK
Oh you lucky devil to see a Bittern. Photographic evidence or not you are still very lucky to catch sight of one. It is many birdwatchers dream come true.
Bitterns are like Water Rails and are shy. Also their colouration blends so beautifully with their background too. No wonder it is so hard to see them.
I would be tempted to have another visit and see if you strike it lucky once more. It must be their breeding time (like so many birds at the moment) so they will be busy.
Thought I would add that there is a 'Little Bittern', but sadly not in the UK. It is a minature version of the bittern we have in this country.
Regards
Kathy and Dave
Brilliant summary of your day Sparrow. I really am so happy that you saw a bittern and so nearby as well. What an experience.
Are you back home now ?
Yes Brenda, I'm back home. More reports to follow.
This particular reserve is the last place in Wales where Bitterns have bred - and this was in 1984 - 26 years ago. We all know they are rare and elusive birds so to have almost stepped on one is indeed a privilege. They are known to sometimes spend the winter at this reserve, but to be there at this time of year must be very rare. I know I am so lucky to have experienced this. I do hope he had a mate with him.
Blackbird - if only I could go back soon!! Our holiday is over and it is a long way from home.
Hi Sparrow,
How wonderful for you. Those 'holding your breath' moments are very special. I look forward to hearing more about your holiday soon.
SB
There is something new to learn everyday...
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Lucky you Sparrow, I've always wanted to see a Bittern, there are lots of reports of them popping up not far from here, but I need much better Bino's and more patience.
Its on my list of birds to see before entering the great Bird Hide in the sky.
Oh Sparrow you lucky thing!
I think you have experienced quite possibly every bird lovers' dream! I'd have been the same as you though re the lack of photos - totally glued to the spot amazed at what was infront of you. But then again, you'd have probably been shaking too much for a decent photo, lol!
Really pleased for you and it sounds like you had a good trip :o)
Lucky Sparrow,very true! Last week I was happy to hear a Bittern just couldn't see It.
Littleowl