Northumberland Wildlife Trust Anticipates Bittern Breeding

Increased observations of a rare marsh bird at nature reserves have generated optimism regarding potential breeding activity. The Northumberland Wildlife Trust reported that bitterns, which belong to the heron family, have consistently overwintered at several of its Druridge Bay sites in recent years. The organization is conducting a project, named Biodivesity Boost, aimed at developing enhanced habitats for these birds. This involves establishing a combination of reed beds, ditches, and pools to encourage their presence during the spring breeding season. Lee Rankin from the trust commented: “It happened before with the marsh harriers, so I’m hoping we can do the same with bitterns.” Bitterns faced extinction in the UK by the 1870s, primarily due to hunting for sustenance and the conversion of their wetland habitats for agricultural use. Conservation initiatives have contributed to a rise in their population, with the RSPB documenting a “record-breaking year” in 2021, recording 228 males, an increase from 209 in 2019. Nevertheless, these birds have not bred in Northumberland for several decades. Mr Rankin stated: “We used to go two or three years without seeing one, but since we improved the reed beds at Cresswell and Chevington, we’ve seen them more and more.” The trust’s aspirations have been supported by a grant totaling £750,000, designated for enhancing biodiversity through the establishment of new habitats. Mr Rankin explained: “Bitterns like a bit of variety, they like reeds to be different ages and different heights so we’ve been cutting channels through the reeds at East Chevington to create more space for them to feed.” He added: “We hope that means they are more likely to stay and start to breed – they’re a very special bird.”