Herons are long-legged, long-necked, freshwater and coastal birds in the family Ardeidae, with 75 recognised species, some of which are referred to as Egrets or Bitterns rather than Herons.
Egrets are not a biologically distinct group from Herons and have the same build. Egrets are no longer considered rare in the UK. The Little Egret is now a common sight along southern coasts and estuaries, while Great White Egrets and Cattle Egrets have transitioned from rare vagrants to regular winter visitors and established breeding species.
Bitterns are thickset Herons with pale, buff-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 males make a remarkable far-carrying, booming sound in spring. It’s very small, reedbed-dependent population make it an Amber List species. It is also a Schedule 1 species, meaning it’s illegal to intentionally recklessly disturb them
