Bittern on Anglesey

Aafter years of dedicated conservation work, the bittern has nested at RSPB Malltraeth Marsh (Cors Ddyga) on the West Coast of Anglesey  – the first time in Wales for 32 years. 

The bittern, a type of streaky pale-brown heron brilliantly camouflaged for its home amongst the reed, was last known to have bred in Wales at Valley on Anglesey in 1984.

The RSPB reserve at Malltraeth have seen various vulnerable species such as water voles, grasshopper warblers and otters thrive in the area due to their hard work, but discovering that bitterns have nested in Wales for the first time in 32 years is truly amazing.

The bittern is a secretive bird, which is difficult to spot as it moves silently through reeds at the water’s edge looking for fish. However, the males are renowned for their remarkable far-carrying, booming mating call in spring – hence being called aderyn y bwn in Welsh.

Malltraeth Marsh is a haven for birdwatchers.  Charles Tunnicliffe the renowned artist famous for his painting of birds and wildlife resided in Malltraeth for many years.