Tuesday, 14 February 2012
Bittern
Scientific Name:
Botaurus stellaris
Length:
69-81cm
Wingspan (mm):
100-130cm
Weight:
1.5k/ 1k
Lifespan:
up to 10 yrs Description
Stocky, rather bulky, thick-necked heron, generaly golden brown with distinct black margins and black crown. Sexes alike and no seasonal differences. Juvenille just distinguishable on close view.
Habitat
Breeds in reedbeds. Winters in marshes and reedbeds around lakes and fishponds.
Diet
Mainly fish and amphibians,but also invertebrates (worms, leeches, molluscs, crustaceans, spiders,) lizards, small birds (wren, bearded tit), small mammals (including water vole, voles and shrews). Solitary, crepuscular and daytime feeder, mainly in shallow water in or near cover. (Taken from Birds of the Western Palearctic interactive as described above).
Population
The European population is estimated at 10,000-12,000 pairs. Russian population 10,000-30,000. Turkish population 30-500
Status
This species is considered to be of high conservation concern and as such is considered to be a 'red list species' as published by the RSPB, BTO, WWT etc. It is included within this list due to a historical population decline and restricted range.
However, as a result of targetted conservation management, Bittern are increasing in numbers and distribution as suitable reedbed habitat increases nationally.
Did You Know?
This species is specially protected by Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation protects Bittern from nest destruction, killing or injuring but also disturbance while breeding.