Oare Marshes or Stodmarsh are reasonably reliable.I'm based in the south, so Rye, Dungeness or Westhay Moor look like my nearest best bets.
and dawn or dusk.I guess that winter to spring is the best time? November-May?
Anything more specific?
Great. Might plan a trip!End of March
I've always assumed that they turn up at a relatively small site (for Bitterns) in Blackpool (Marton Mere) every winter because some are site loyal. An admittedly rather dated paper in British Birds says 'several places hold wintering Bitterns regularly or for small runs of winters and it is tempting to suggest some individuals may be faithful to wintering sites.' (Bibby). Has that been shown to be mistaken?There are many more and much more widespread in winter, but the wintering Bitterns don't seem to be particularly site loyal.
Did not know that and will head there in spring as it saves going South. Thanks for the info Burnie and a poor show from the RSPB on both counts, as you say.It would seem from that map, that either the RSPB doesn't know that Scotland is still part of the UK or that there are Bitterns to be seen here, that is wrong on both counts, indeed the RSPB reserve at Loch Kinnordy has them.
Loch of Strathbeg is another location in the NE of ScotlandDid not know that and will head there in spring as it saves going South. Thanks for the info Burnie and a poor show from the RSPB on both counts, as you say.
Cheers,
Stephen
Thanks Burnie, a good bit further away for me so I'll probably just stick to Loch Kinnordy but will bear it in mind.Loch of Strathbeg is another location in the NE of Scotland