Bittern close-up in the reeds at Otmoor

Otmoor RSPB Nature Reserve, near Beckley, Oxfordshire (January 2010)

One of the three January 2010 Bitterns observed at Otmoor (second screen). This one doesn't appear to show the blue patch at the base of the bill which the March 2009 Bittern did (photo). The March Bittern, showing on Big Otmoor, was thought to be a male sub-adult.

This was quite a close view to the left of the second screen. Heavy crop from the full frame image.

For more information on this bird species see the following links:
Eurasian Bittern / Internet Bird Collection
Eurasian Bittern / Bird Forum
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species / Botaurus stellaris