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Saving The British Bitterns Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

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Updated on Jul 15, 2024, 10:34

The IELTS Reading test is a pivotal part of the IELTS exam, designed to assess your ability to comprehend and interpret written English across various genres. This section challenges you with passages that explore various themes, from factual accounts to persuasive arguments. 


 

Focusing on " Saving the British Bitterns," this sample provides insights into conservation efforts for this endangered bird species in the UK. The passage outlines key strategies, examines environmental challenges, and discusses human impacts on British bittern habitats. 


 

Following the passage, you will find questions that gauge your comprehension, accompanied by detailed explanations to aid your understanding of correct answers. This practice test will equip you with the skills needed to excel in the IELTS Reading test, ensuring you are well-prepared for exam day.
 

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1. Saving The British Bitterns Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 14 based on the Reading Passage below. This approach can help manage time effectively during a reading comprehension activity or exam.


 


 

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2. Saving The British Bitterns Reading Questions & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Saving The British Bitterns Reading  Question & Answers

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1.

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Passage

General Information

  • Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
  • Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
  • Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
  • Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
  • Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
  • Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
  • Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
  • Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers.

 

 

 

 

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Passage

 

 

Paragraph A: 

 

Breeding bitterns became extinct in the UK by 1886, but following re-colonisation early last century, numbers rose to a peak of about 70 booming (singing) males in the 1950s, falling to fewer than 20 by the 1990s. In the late 1980s, it was clear that the bittern was in trouble, but there was little information on which to base recovery actions.

 

 

Paragraph B: 

 

Bitterns have cryptic plumage and shy nature, usually remaining hidden within the cover of reedbed vegetation. Our first challenge was to develop standard methods to monitor their numbers. The boom of the male bittern is its most distinctive feature during the breeding season, and we developed a method to count them using the sound patterns unique to each individual. This not only allows the US to be much more certain of the number of booming males in the UK but also enables us to estimate the local survival of males from one year to the next.

 

 

Paragraph C: 

 

Our first direct understanding of the habitat needs of breeding bitterns came from comparisons of reedbed sites that had lost their booming birds with those that retained them. This research showed that bitterns had been retained in reedbeds where the natural process of succession, or drying out, had been slowed through management. Based on this work, broad recommendations on how to manage and rehabilitate reedbeds for bitterns were made, and funding was provided through the EU LIFE Fund to manage 13 sites within the core breeding range. This project, though led by the RSPB, involved many other organisations.

 

 

Paragraph D: 

 

To refine these recommendations and provide fine-scale, quantitative habitat prescriptions on the bitterns’ preferred feeding habitat, we radio-tracked male bitterns on the RSPB’s Minsmere and Leighton Moss reserves. This showed clear preferences for feeding in the wetter reedbed margins, particularly within the reedbed next to larger open pools. The average home range sizes of the male bitterns we followed (about 20 hectares) provided a good indication of the area of reedbed needed when managing or creating habitat for this species.

 

 

Paragraph E: 

 

The success of the habitat prescriptions developed from this research has been spectacular. For instance, at Minsmere, booming bittern numbers gradually increased from one to 10 following reedbed lowering, a management technique designed to halt the drying out process. After a low point of 11 booming males in 1997, bittern numbers in Britain responded to all the habitat management work and started to increase for the first time since the 1950s.

 

 

Paragraph F: 

 

The final phase of research involved understanding the diet, survival and dispersal of bittern chicks. To do this, we fitted small radio tags to young bittern chicks in the nest to determine their fate through to fledging and beyond. Many chicks did not survive to fledge, and starvation was found to be the most likely reason for their demise. The fish prey fed to chicks was dominated by those species penetrating into the reed edge. So, an important element of recent studies (including a PhD with the University of Hull) has been the development of recommendations on habitat and water conditions to promote healthy native fish populations.

 

 

Paragraph G: 

 

Once independent, radio-tagged young bitterns were found to seek out new sites during their first winter, a proportion of these would remain on new sites to breed if the conditions were suitable. A second EU LIFE-funded project aims to provide these suitable sites in new areas. A network of 19 sites developed through this partnership project will secure a more sustainable UK bittern population with successful breeding outside of the core area, less vulnerable to chance events and sea level rise.

 

 

Paragraph H: 

 

By 2004, the number of booming male bitterns in the UK had increased to 55, with almost all of the increase being on those sites undertaking management based on advice derived from our research. Although science has been at the core of the bittern story, success has only been achieved through the trust, hard work and dedication of all the managers, owners and wardens of sites that have implemented, in some cases very drastic, management to secure the future of this wetland species in the UK.

 

 

Paragraph I: 

 

Bitterns now regularly winter on the site, with some indication that they stay longer into the spring. No breeding has yet occurred, but a booming male was present in the spring of 2004. A range of wildfowl breeds, as well as a good number of reedbed passerines, including reed bunting, reed, sedge and grasshopper warblers. The number of wintering shovelers has increased so that the site now holds an important UK wintering population. Malltraeth Reserve now forms part of the UK network of key sites for water vole (a UK priority species), and 12 monitoring transects have been established. Otter and brown hare occur on the site, as does the rare plant, pillwort.

2.

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Questions & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about  Saving The British Bitterns

Questions and Answers 1-7

  • The reading passage has nine paragraphs, A - I

 

 

List of Headings

 

 

I. Research findings into habitats and decisions made

II. fluctuation in bittern number

III. protect the young bittern

IV. international cooperation works

V. began in the calculation of the number

VI. importance of food

VII. research has been successful

VIII. research into the reedbed

IX. reserve established holding bittern in winter

 

 

Choose the correct heading for paragraphs A-I from the list.

 


Write the correct number, i-viii, in boxes 14-20 on your answer sheet.

 

 

1. Paragraph A
2. Paragraph B
3. Paragraph C
4. Paragraph D
5. Paragraph F
6. Paragraph G
7. Paragraph H

 


 

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Answers with Explanations 1-7

 


 

Type of Question: Heading Matching 


 

These types of questions involve choosing the right heading based on the given 

paragraph. 


 

How to best answer: 


 

  • Read the headings carefully to understand the main idea of each section.
  • Skim the passage to grasp the overall structure and content.
  • Match each paragraph to the heading that best summarises its main point.
  • Pay attention to keywords and phrases that align with the headings.
  • Eliminate choices that do not accurately capture the essence of the paragraph.



 

1. II

 

Reference: From Paragraph A, "Breeding bitterns became extinct in the UK by 1886 but, following re-colonisation early last century, numbers rose to a peak of about 70 booming (singing) males in the 1950s, falling to fewer than 20 by the 1990s."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph A describes the historical fluctuations in the number of bitterns in the UK, highlighting their near-extinction by 1886, subsequent recovery to a peak in the 1950s, and decline again by the 1990s. This narrative illustrates the significant fluctuations in bittern numbers over time, making "fluctuation in bittern number" an appropriate heading.

 

 

2. V

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph B, "Our first challenge was to develop standard methods to monitor their numbers."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph B discusses the initial steps taken to monitor bittern populations using unique sound patterns, marking the beginning of efforts to calculate and track their numbers accurately. This aligns with the heading "began in the calculation of the number," as it describes the inception of methods for monitoring bittern populations.

 

 

3. I

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph C, "Nevertheless, a number of other crops, including oranges and tomatoes meant for processing, are also picked mechanically, albeit to a lower extent."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph C focuses on research findings regarding reedbed sites where bitterns have been retained due to slowed natural processes like succession. It discusses recommendations for managing and rehabilitating these habitats, indicating a deep understanding of bittern habitat needs. Therefore, "research findings into habitats and decisions made" is an appropriate heading as it encompasses both the research findings and subsequent management decisions.

 

 

4. VII

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph D, "To refine these recommendations and provide fine-scale, quantitative habitat prescriptions on the bitterns’ preferred feeding habitat, we radio-tracked male bitterns..."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph D delves into detailed research on bitterns' habitat preferences, specifically focusing on their feeding habits within reedbeds. It highlights the use of radio-tracking to understand their movements and habitat needs, which is crucial for managing and preserving bittern habitats effectively. Thus, "research into the reedbed" aptly summarises the focus of this paragraph on understanding and managing bittern habitats.

 

 

5. VI

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph F, "The final phase of research involved understanding the diet, survival and dispersal of bittern chicks."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph F emphasises the importance of food availability for bittern chicks, detailing how their diet impacts their survival and dispersal. It highlights the challenges faced by chicks, particularly their vulnerability to starvation, underscoring the critical role of food availability in their lifecycle. Therefore, the "importance of food" accurately captures the central theme of this paragraph.

 

 

6. III

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph G, "A second EU LIFE funded project aims to provide these suitable sites in new areas."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph G discusses ongoing efforts to protect young bitterns and ensure a sustainable UK bittern population. It outlines EU-funded projects aimed at establishing new breeding sites outside core areas, thereby securing the future of bittern populations. The heading "Protect the young bittern" reflects the proactive measures being taken to safeguard bittern habitats and populations.

 

 

7. IV

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph H, "Although science has been at the core of the bittern story, success has only been achieved through the trust, hard work and dedication of all the managers, owners and wardens..."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph H highlights the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including managers, owners, and wardens, in implementing successful management strategies for bittern habitats. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and dedication in achieving conservation goals, making "international cooperation works" an appropriate heading for this paragraph.

 


 

IELTS Reading Tips & Tricks 2024: Techniques for Band 9

Questions and Answers 8-13

  • Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the passage for each answer.

 

 

8. When did the bird of bittern reach its peak of number?
9. What does the author describe the bittern’s character?
10. What is the main cause for the chick bittern’s death?
11. What is the main food for chick bittern?
12. What system does it secure for the stability of the bittern’s population?
13. Besides bittern and rare vegetation, what mammal does the protection plan benefit?


 

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Answers with Explanations 8-13 


 

Type of Question: Short Answer Questions 


 

These types of questions in the IELTS Reading test involve reading the question carefully, locating the relevant part of the passage, and providing a concise answer using keywords and information directly from the text.


 

How to best answer: 


 

  • Understand what information is required and how many words you need to use.
  • Quickly locate the section that contains the answer.
  • Look for specific keywords or synonyms in the question within the passage.
  • Rewrite the information using your own words while maintaining accuracy.
  • Ensure your answer fits the word limit and is spelt correctly.



 

8. 1950s

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph A, "Breeding bitterns became extinct in the UK by 1886 but, following re-colonisation early last century, numbers rose to a peak of about 70 booming (singing) males in the 1950s."

 

 

Explanation: The passage in Paragraph A discusses the historical population trends of bitterns in the UK. It explains how bitterns were once extinct by 1886 but began to re-establish themselves in the early 20th century. By the 1950s, their numbers reached a peak of approximately 70 booming males, highlighting a significant recovery period for the species.

 

 

9. Shy Nature

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph B, "Bitterns have cryptic plumage and a shy nature, usually remaining hidden within the cover of reedbed vegetation."

 

 

Explanation: In Paragraph B, the text describes the behavioural characteristics of bitterns, emphasising their cryptic appearance and timid behaviour. This shy nature is adaptive, allowing bitterns to blend into their environment and avoid detection, which is crucial for their survival in the dense reedbeds where they typically reside.

 

 

10. Starvation

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph F, "Many chicks did not survive to fledge, and starvation was found to be the most likely reason for their demise."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph F focuses on the challenges faced by bittern chicks during their early stages of life. It mentions that a significant number of chicks do not survive to fledge (the stage when they can fly independently), with starvation identified as the primary cause of mortality. This underscores the critical importance of sufficient food resources, particularly native fish, for the survival of bittern chicks.
 

 

11. (Native) Fish

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph F, "The fish prey to chicks was dominated by those species penetrating into the reed edge."

 

 

Explanation: In Paragraph F, the passage discusses the diet of bittern chicks, highlighting their reliance on native fish species that inhabit the edges of reedbeds. This dietary preference is crucial for their growth and development, as these fish provide essential nutrients and energy needed for their survival in their habitat.

 

 

12. Partnership Project Network

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph G, "This partnership project will secure a more sustainable UK bittern population with successful breeding outside of the core area, less vulnerable to chance events and sea level rise."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph G details an EU-funded partnership project aimed at expanding the breeding sites for bitterns beyond their traditional habitats. By creating a network of protected areas, the project ensures a more sustainable population of bitterns in the UK. This approach reduces their vulnerability to environmental threats such as sea level rise and natural disasters, thereby supporting long-term conservation efforts.

 

 

13. Other and Brown Hare

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph I, "Malltraeth Reserve now forms part of the UK network of key sites for water vole (a UK priority species), and 12 monitoring transects have been established. Otter and brown-hare occur on the site as do the rare plants, pillwort."

 

 

Explanation: Paragraph I highlights the broader ecological benefits of conservation efforts at Malltraeth Reserve. It mentions the presence of otters and brown hares, along with other wildlife such as water voles and rare plants like pillwort. This demonstrates how protecting bittern habitats through initiatives like the EU projects supports biodiversity, benefiting multiple species that depend on similar wetland ecosystems for their survival.

Questions and Answers 14

  • Choose the correct letter: A, B, C or D.
  • FWrite your answers in box 27 on your answer sheet.

 

 

27. What is the main purpose of this passage?

 

  1. The main characteristic of a bird is called a bittern.
  2. Cooperation can protect an endangered species.
  3. The difficulty of accessing information about a bittern’s habitat and diet.
  4. To save wetlands and reedbeds in the UK.

 


 

Also See: IELTS Academic 2024 Reading Resources

 

 

Saving The British Bitterns Reading Answers with Explanations 14


 

 

Type of Question: Multiple Choice Questions


 

These types of questions in IELTS reading involve identifying the right choice from the given options using the given paragraph.


 

How to best answer: 

 

  • Understand the context and what each option represents.
  • Quickly locate the section that relates to the question.
  • Rule out choices that do not align with the information in the passage.
  • Select the option that most accurately answers the question based on the passage.
  • Ensure your selected answer matches the question requirements and is supported by the passage.



 

14. B

 

 

Reference: From Paragraph I, "The whole passage is briefly summarised in the ninth paragraph."

 

 

Explanation: In Paragraph I, the passage briefly summarises the main purpose of the entire reading, emphasising the importance of cooperation in protecting endangered species. This aligns with the theme of the passage, which focuses on collaborative efforts and partnerships aimed at conserving and safeguarding wetlands and reedbed habitats in the UK, particularly for species like the bittern. 

 


 

Also Read:

 

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FAQs

Q. How can I manage my time effectively during the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. To manage time effectively in the IELTS Reading test, start by quickly skimming through passages to grasp the main ideas. Allocate specific time limits for each section and question. Prioritise easier questions first to gain momentum. Use scanning techniques to locate specific information quickly. If stuck, make educated guesses and mark questions to return to later if time permits. Practice under timed conditions to improve pacing and familiarity with the test format.

Q. What are some good sources for practice materials for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Excellent practice materials for the IELTS Reading test include official IELTS practice tests available on the IELTS website or in Cambridge IELTS books. Online resources like practice tests, sample questions, and reading passages from reputable educational websites and IELTS preparation books are also beneficial. These resources provide varied content and question types, helping you to familiarise yourself with the test format and improve your reading skills.

Q. How can I improve my comprehension skills for the IELTS Reading test?

Ans. Improving comprehension skills for the IELTS Reading test involves regular practice with diverse reading materials. Focus on understanding the main ideas, details, and implied meanings. Expand vocabulary by reading different genres and noting unfamiliar words. Analyse different question types commonly found in the test and practice strategies like skimming for gist and scanning for specific information. Reviewing mistakes helps identify weaknesses and areas for improvement, enhancing overall comprehension abilities.