Bittern in the reeds
My first non-flight sighting of the elusive Bittern. This image was taken at Lee Valley where it remained in view for some time. A rare and shy heron, the bittern spends almost all its time hidden away in large reedbeds, where it feeds on eels and other fish. It has wonderfully camouflaged plumage, helping it to blend into the reeds. It can also stand motionless for long periods to avoid detection.
Location: Lee Valley, Essex
Photographer: Dave Saunders