Boom!

Some birds never lose their magic, no matter how many times you’re lucky enough to see them. Over the past week, I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with one of Britain’s most secretive and iconic wetland birds—the Bittern.

Often a master of staying hidden, this particular male Bittern has been a little more obliging than most, offering a few wonderful views. Better still, I’ve been able to watch him booming on several occasions.

If you’ve never heard a Bittern boom, it’s something truly special. The sound is deep, resonant, and carries far across the wetlands—almost more felt than heard. This male is still a little rusty though, his calls more like deep grunts than the full, echoing booms that experienced birds produce. Still, there’s something hugely endearing about watching him try, chest puffed out and neck stretched skywards in effort.

Bitterns are birds of stillness and patience. Their camouflaged plumage allows them to vanish into reedbeds with ease, blending perfectly into their surroundings. Every sighting feels like a reward for persistence and quiet watching. It’s part of what makes springtime birding so exciting—moments like these that you simply can’t plan or predict.