Crossword Genius

Snapped the bird - the bird on the shore (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bittern

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'bird on the shore' is the definition.
'bittern' can be an answer for 'bird' (bittern is a kind of bird). I am not sure about the 'on the shore' bit.

'snapped the bird' is the wordplay.
'snapped' becomes 'bit' (I've seen this in other clues).
'the bird' becomes 'tern' (tern is a kind of bird).
'bit'+'tern'='BITTERN'

'the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bittern that I've seen before include "''He shall not hear the ... cry / In the wild sky where he is lain'' (Lament for Thomas MacDonagh)" , "Source of boom" , "Compact tawny-brown heron with nocturnal habits and a booming cry" , "Booming marsh bird" , "Aquatic bird" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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