Bunyip Bird

The Australasian Bittern is an endangered wetland bird. Sometimes called the Bunyip Bird because of its booming night-time call, this very secretive species makes its nest in thick sedges, reeds and rushes on the edge of freshwater wetlands.

It is extremely well camouflaged with brown speckled feathers that blend into the reeds. It hunts for food at night and when alarmed adopts an upright stance and sways in the breeze like the reeds. No wonder it is rarely seen!

Once common in the Hunter Region, loss of habitat and the threat from feral animals has had a devastating impact on their numbers.

Sightings of this Bittern contributed to the dedication of the Hunter Wetland Centre site as a Ramsar Wetland of International Significance.

Australasian Bitterns are widespread but uncommon over south-eastern Australia.

• They prefer permanent freshwater wetlands with tall, dense reeds.
• They hide during the day amongst dense reeds or rushes and feed mainly at night on frogs, fish, yabbies, spiders, insects and snails.
• Feeding platforms may be constructed of trampled reeds over deeper water.
• Breeding is in summer from October to January and nests are built hidden on a platform of reeds.
• They usually lay about 6 olive, brown eggs.

Bittern or Bust

Test your survival skills by playing the new interactive game Bittern or Bust: how long will you survive as a Bittern? Suitable for adults and children over 8 years. Requires an internet connection.

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