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Memberships builds our community and gives us a predictable income, which lets us plan and sustain longer projects that can have a greater impact. The more members we have, the more we can do to protect the Sussex countryside and coast.
Make a donation
Membership builds our community and gives us a predictable income, which lets us plan and sustain longer projects that can have a greater impact. The more members we have, the more we can do to protect the Sussex countryside and coast.
Overview
A rare heron, the Bittern spends almost all its time hidden away in large reedbeds, where it feeds on eels and other fish. It has wonderfully camouflaged plumage, helping it to blend into the reeds. It can also stand motionless for long periods to avoid detection.
Key Facts
- The Bittern is very well camouflaged, with pale brown plumage, streaked with beige and black markings.
- During the breeding season, the male Bittern ‘booms’, making a deep, foghorn-like sound which can be heard up to two miles away, mostly at night. Males will mate with up to five females each season, who will each produce four or five eggs in March or April.
- Length: 70-80cm Wingspan: 1.3m Weight: 1-1.5kg Average lifespan: max. 11 years
Status
Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.
Seasonality
All year round
