We take a look at the biggest wader, the Great Bittern
All you need to know about the wading bird, the Great Bittern
What are Great Bitterns?
The Eurasian or Great Bittern is the largest species of bittern (a member of the heron family)
How big are Great Bitterns?
These mighty wading birds are about is 69–81 cm in length, a wingspan of 1.3m. Great Bitterns weigh between 1 and nearly 2kg.
Where do Great Bitterns live?
The bird is found across most of Europe, Asia and Africa. They like to breed in dense and extensive Phragmites reedbeds.
Do Great Bitterns have any other names?
Local names include “bogbull, butterbump’ and ‘miredrum.
What do Great Bitterns eat?
Bitterns supplement their main diet of fish with frogs and invertebrates in the summer.
How to spot Great Bitterns
Their cryptic plumage makes bittens hard to spot. particularly among reedbeds with spring growth
Look out for birds “fying on broad wings wish legs trailing and neck retracted
To hear a booming male the best time is dawn or dusk
Watch out for their aerial courtship chases.
When is the best time of year to see them?
Bitterns are easier to see in winter when very coid weather forces them out into the open to food.
Are Great Bitterns endangered?
Their RSPB UK Conservation status is amber.
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