rare bittern

[frankiex]

just read in my local paper that there is a bittern at rainton meadows about 4 miles from where i live in durham,just wondered how long it might hang about for as we are snowed in at the moment and cant get down,love to see one.

[Dogghound]

Impossible to say, could be 3mins could be 3 months. In general they often hang around provided there is plenty of food and not to much disturbance. As in most cases if you want to see a bird your best to go as soon as you can. We had one winter in Scarborough last year, which appeared at a similar time, this stayed about 3 months until it was found dead.

[frankiex]

used to live in filey but moved back to durham got family at eastfield,filey dams were popular,where in scarborough was the bittern,cheers

[RoyW]

The wintering Bitterns near me generally arrive any time between early October and late February (the first individuals arrive in early October, additional birds then often turn up during cold spells). Some only stay for short periods, others remain until mid March or early April.

So basically, as Dogghound says, there is no way of telling!

Good luck when you get a chance to try (you may need it, even if the Bittern is still present!).

[Dogghound]

Originally Posted by frankiex

used to live in filey but moved back to durham got family at eastfield,filey dams were popular,where in scarborough was the bittern,cheers

Funnily enough it was Burton Riggs which is literally on the edge of Eastfield.

[snackdahl]

Originally Posted by frankiex

just read in my local paper that there is a bittern at rainton meadows about 4 miles from where i live in durham,just wondered how long it might hang about for as we are snowed in at the moment and cant get down,love to see one.

There is actually 2 Bitterns and they are showing well on the iced over water. The car park gates are closed due to the snow, but you can still walk into the reserve to view. Best take a flask and several layers of clothing if you plan spending any time in the "freezer" hide though

[Cuckoo Jack]

Hi,

If you want up to date information on the Bitterns at Rainton, the best way is to visit birdforum.net and read the Durham thread.

Tom

[actionfinch]

been a sighting at rye meads reserve, i have a lady pass to go there on sunday for a few hours , i hope its still there , accourding to the herts bird club site it was seen there yesterday