News

Wednesday, 6 January 2010

Ann Smith

Rescued Bittern Returns to 70 Acres Lake, Fishers Green

In January 2009, a very weak male bittern was rescued from the reedbed in front of the Bittern Watchpoint at 70 Acres Lake, Fishers Green and taken into care by the Lee Valley Park. It was thought the bird had recently arrived and had not fed because of the icy conditions. Nicknamed 'Kevin' due to the name written on his travelling cage, he was looked after by Alan Harris, fed on trout fillets and kept warm in Alan's kitchen and garden shed until he gained a little weight.

Prior to release the bird was ringed (white plastic ring on left leg marked SH - or HS(!) and a metal ring on the right leg) so that its progress could be tracked. The picture shows the bittern just before his release. Once released the bittern 'stomped' slowly off into the nearby reedbeeds - exhibiting his normal threat posture.

This week, he was spotted in the reedbed outside the Bittern Watchpoint, the first sighting since his release on January 23rd 2009. So, keep an eye out for Kevin, and let LVRPA know if you spot him or use the 'Contact Us' link above to let us know.