Rare bird spotted at nature reserve

A RARE bird has been spotted at Attenborough Nature Reserve.

Notts Wildlife Trust staff, who manage the reserve, spotted the bittern – a rare species of heron – amongst the reeds on Wednesday.

Speaking about the appearance, Tim Sexton from the reserve, said: "These birds are very few in number – with only 87 males recorded in the UK last year. Here at Attenborough we are usually very fortunate: our specially-created reedbed habitat often attracts bitterns during the cold winter weather.

"Over the last couple of years, bird enthusiasts from around the country have travelled to Attenborough to catch a glimpse of this elusive bird, with five recorded last winter.

"I can only assume that this year, the recent harsh wet and windy conditions on the east coast have moved them inland to their over-winter grounds early."
Continued: http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/Rare-bird-spotted-nature-reserve/story-17009720-detail/story.html

More information on the bittern (Botaurus stellaris):

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/b/bittern/index.aspx