Bittern spotted as Lee Valley launches free guided bird walks

As with all wildlife watching, there’s no guarantee that the Bittern will show at this popular annual event, but this year hopes were high after eagle-eyed volunteers spotted the Bittern from the Wildlife Discovery Centre’s bird hide the day before the event. On the evening of the roost watch the 45 wildlife enthusiasts in attendance weren’t disappointed, with the Bittern visible amongst the reeds from the venue’s tower, overlooking Seventy Acres Lake.

Seventy Acres Lake is part of the Lee Valley Special Protection Area due to its importance for wetland birds, including Bittern. The Wildlife Discovery Centre is open daily and is a great place to visit to find out more about River Lee Country Park and the wildlife that calls it home, including the elusive Bittern.

Learn more about the birds in Lee Valley

Following an exciting Bittern Roost Watch, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority is delighted to announce a new series of free guided bird walks, led by experienced birding experts to discover the birds in River Lee Country Park.

The first event takes place on Thursday 22 January. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and discover the resident wildlife and wonderful habitats within the park. Birds you may spot during the winter months include Peregrine Falcons, Little Egrets, the iconic Bittern, Great Crested Grebes, Pochards, Black Headed Gulls, Water Rails.

Event information:

Guided walk: Birds of River Lee Country Park

Date:  Thursday 22 January

Time:  13:00

Price:  FREE Booking essential - visitleevalley.org.uk/whatson

Location:  Wildlife Discovery Centre, Fishers Green

The walk will start and end at the Wildlife Discovery Centre in Fishers Green and last approximately 60 - 90 minutes. On return to the centre visitors can warm up with a hot drink.

Advance booking is required as there is a maximum group size of 12.

Please make sure you wear appropriate footwear and clothing and if you have any binoculars please bring them along.

Future events

Guided walk: Birds of River Lee Country Park - Thursday 19 February, 13:00, FREE, booking essential - visitleevalley.org.uk/whatson. Meet at Wildlife Discovery Centre, Fishers Green

Guided walk: Birds of River Lee Country Park - Thursday 19 March, 13:00, FREE, booking essential - visitleevalley.org.uk/whatson. Meet at Wildlife Discovery Centre, Fishers Green

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