Research
John Cheyne, one of the Godfathers of Bittern Conservation in New Zealand wrote in May 2011 ..
"Bittern require quality habitat and size is important. Generally large
areas (> 20ha) which is densely vegetated is required to support a breeding territory. They also require shallow water, the right mix of plants and access to a good food supply (eels, small fish,frogs)"
Australasian Bittern in Hawke's Bay - A Possible Path to Recovery (May 2011)
More than a decade later, research continues to support this!
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What we need now is action on the ground.
CONNECT TO PROTECT
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Travelling to meet with communities, helping them raise awareness, educate and advocate for Bittern and their wetland homes.​
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All of the references below have helped to inform this program​​
THE GREAT MATUKU MUSTER
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Promoting, coordinating, training and collating the results for the first nationwide synchronised counts of male bittern booming!​
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Department of Conservation Protocols
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HABITAT FOR HUREPO
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Assessing and establishing action to restore wetlands for Bittern to thrive and not just survive!​
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Research from New Zealand, Australia and the UK informed this program.
LOVE BITTERN PROJECT - FEATURES OF AN INTACT BITTERN HABITAT -Discussion and references
Department of Conservation - latest guide
Conservation Management of Bittern Emma Williams 2024 (.pdf)
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WHERE THE FUTURE SITS
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Monitoring female behaviour at strategic locations in each region & providing immediate support to help nest success.​
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UK Research
The Bittern in Europe: a guide to species and habitat management
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