First Booming Bittern of the Year!
On the evening of Thursday 28th March, the reserve team at WWT Martin Mere stayed after hours to carry out a survey in the hopes to record bitterns on the reserve.
Bitterns are known to be an elusive species, and blend seamlessly into their reedbed habitat. But while they may be difficult to spot, they are the UK’s loudest bird with their distinctive calls carrying up to three miles.
After heading to the reedbed, it wasn’t long before a foghorn sound was heard nearby. Success - the sound of a booming bittern at approximately 7pm!
The booming bittern is a promising sign of future chicks, as it's a call used by males to attract a mate. Last year, WWT Martin Mere saw its first ever bittern chicks hatch in recorded history, so we are keeping our fingers crossed for another successful year for this shy, rare bird.
When to hear a bittern call
You’re more likely to hear a bittern call during the spring breeding season, which typically runs from March until May. Their most active times are at dawn and dusk, so if you’re nearby a reedbed be sure to keep an ear out!
Find out more about the wildlife at WWT Martin Mere.
