THREE Bitterns were spotted “sizing each other up” ahead of mating season on a hidden wildlife camera at the Somerset Levels.

The birds are classified by the Wildlife Trust as very rare, as they were once extinct.

Male Bitterns are known for their unmistakable, far-carrying, booming sound in spring—a sound that is often heard on the Somerset Levels, as it is home to one of the largest populations of breeding bitterns in the UK.

The foghorn-like noise helps males to attract a mate and is usually heard between March and May.

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A Somerset Wildlife Trust spokesperson said they couldn’t quite believe they captured the footage.

“We can’t quite believe this incredible footage captured earlier this month — not one, not two, but three bitterns are all on camera together,” they said.

“Bitterns are elusive birds, and to see three all together in one place is such a rare sight.

“Although it’s difficult to say for sure, we believe these birds are likely all young males, sizing each other up and getting ready to compete for mates in the spring.”

Bitterns spotted on Somerset Levels:

A Bittern was also captured by a hidden trail cam at the Levels in January.

The trail cam was installed thanks to the Species Survival Fund (developed by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund).

Bitterns became extinct in the UK in the 1870s due to persecution and draining of their wetland habitat for agriculture, but their numbers have thankfully increased over the years.

There are now more than 50 pairs of the bird in the Avalon Marshes alone, with people coming from across the country to spot the rare birds.

Bitterns are not the only elusive wildlife to make an appearance on the Levels this year.

Your Leveller reported on the first sign of beaver activity being found on the Somerset Levels in January.