American Bittern Credit @Andy3278
American Bittern Credit @Andy3278
American Bittern Credit @BOBeducation
American Bittern Credit @BOBeducation
American Bittern Credit @BOBeducation
Carlton Marshes
On the lookout
Team photo
Redshank
Grasshopper Warbler
Yellow Wagtail
Parked up in the well arranged over-flow car park we followed the advice of a couple of helpful returning birders on the 25 minute walk across the fantastic reserve. A Grasshopper Warbler reeled away in a reed bed in close proximity to the path. I'd estimate there were about 70 birders present of which a good few were returning having either come for a better view or had dipped it previously.
We took up a position where we knew it had been seen earlier in the morning. The warden on site was really friendly and keen to offer any helpful hints. On the other side of the path was a large lagoon where there were some nice species present. They included 2 Redshank, 8 Shoveler, a Dunlin, Kestrel, 3 Avocet and 1 Egyptian Goose.
A Kestrel and 5 Marsh Harriers continued to be busy over the reeds beds. From the other direction our first Cuckoo flew east calling whilst 3 Yellow Wagtails fed in the meadow.
The American Bittern would be a test of patience as we waited and waited. A possible sighting was dismissed at the other end so we returned to our original spot. The American Bittern was originally discovered when a photograph posted a photo on social media that was taken at a wedding walk of two local marsh supporters, it was identified by local naturalist Rob Holmes. This led to one of the biggest twitches in Suffolks history with the marsh receiving an endless supply of visitors. All the team made a donation to the reserves appeal as they try and raise enough funding to extend the reserve. Fingers crossed they beat their target with ease.
As the temperature dropped we were all feeling the cold air. The minutes just kept passing by and we all knew the journey home at a very steady 50 mph would be even more painful without seeing the American Bittern. Fifteen minutes past our scheduled departure time the WarwickRCBirder shouted up "coming straight at us" and there in front us was the illusive American Bittern flying down the ditch toward us four and about five other birders. A corvid instantly tried to mob the bird forcing it higher and round some willows before landing in the deep reeds. It was a case of hand shakes all round as we packed up our scopes and marched across the reserve with a spring in our step.
We couldn't quite believe we saw the bird at all given we were in the last minute of injury time. Lady luck was certainly on our side on this occasion. Many thanks to all the team at Suffolk Wildlife Trust for their fantastic organisation.
The Squire was asleep before leaving the car park - it was all too much for him. He did wake after his 2 hour power nap to treat us to tone dead singing with his headphones in - video will be released in due course ! In all seriousness, we all had a super day and the doubling up with Minsmere made it even the more enjoyable. Thanks to all the lads for their company & banter (& yes……..for driving)
Many thanks to Lindsey (Butterflies of Britain & Andy Hale for use of Bittern images)
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