AN EAGLE-eyed photographer snapped these incredible pictures of a rare bird.

Steven Coulson took the pictures of a bittern, a type of heron, at Radipole Lake nature reserve in Weymouth.

Dorset Echo:

The RSPB site is known for its visiting bitterns but Steve, who is a regular visitor to the reserve, said he believes it is the first time anyone has managed to get a photo of the secretive birds at Radipole.

He said it was ‘quite an unexpected treat’ to see and photograph the birds.

The photos show how adept the bittern is at camouflage, blending into the reeds it is surrounded by.

According to the RSPB the bittern is: “A thickset heron with all-over bright, pale, buffy-brown plumage covered with dark streaks and bars. It flies on broad, rounded, bowed wings. A secretive bird, very difficult to see, as it moves silently through reeds at water's edge, looking for fish.”

The birds are well known for the ‘booming’ sound they make in spring, which they use to attract females.

There are just 80 breeding pairs in the UK, but around 600 birds spend the winter here.

The RSPB said the bird is on its amber list due to its dependence on reedbeds and its small population. The organisation uses red, amber and green to denote the importance of a species in terms of conservation.

Radipole is also home to other spectacular wildlife, including marsh harriers and otters.
For those who want to get out and about and learn a new skill, the RSPB is running free birdwatching courses this February and March. 

Each course runs across three weeks and participants must be available for all sessions.

The first course starts on Tuesday, February 7 and continues on 14 and 21 and the second course starts on Tuesday, March 7, continuing on 14 and 21.

Places are limited and booking is essential. Call 01305 778313 or email Weymouth.reserves@rspb.org.uk