The bittern is a bird much admired by birdwatchers across the land. Many people, though, have not seen it in the wild.
The bittern has been featured in several wildlife programmes recently.
Presenters set out to spot the diminutive bird but fail on most occasions - not great TV, you might think!
A brown streaked bird that merges in perfectly amongst the reeds where it lives, the bittern is a member of the heron family, though slightly smaller than the grey herons that are so plentiful in Wanstead Park and along the River Roding.
The bittern was threatened with extinction a few years ago but has made a great recovery with the help of conservationists.
I had longed to see a bittern for many years until three years ago, when I was lucky to spot one briefly at Rye Harbour in Sussex.
At the time, I had almost given up hope, despite hearing the characteristic booming for days when suddenly, one rose out of the reed bed, flew a short distance and disappeared into another mass of reeds. All over in a minute, but what a view!
It was an exciting moment. Unfortunately, that was my one and only sighting.
Bitterns have been seen at the Fisher Green reserve in Cheshunt. Norfolk is a favourite place.
Local birders here hold out hope that one day, one might come to the reeds around Wanstead, but better not hold your breath.
A few years ago, I remember first seeing a kingfisher, that flash of emerald back and bronze chest flying down the river. Then, another, sitting on a branch.
There have been a few sightings of kingfishers over the years, but it is still exciting to see the little bird in action.
The most recent wildlife spot was an otter, although, unfortunately, it was not on the River Roding (not for want of trying).
This was an early morning in Oxfordshire, in a pool just off the Thames. Rings of water and then three otters appeared, one out of the water, the other two heads just showing - it was a great moment. I live in hope of seeing one of the Roding otters soon!
There is some fantastic wildlife around this area, so get out and have a look.
Not every trip will be successful, indeed, most won't. But that occasion when you see your first otter, bittern, kingfisher, or something else altogether will live with you forever - a great moment to savour.
- Paul Donovan is Labour councillor for Wanstead Village ward, Redbridge Council and a blogger (paulfdonovan.blogspot.com).
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