A rare marsh bird's booming call is being heard again in Sussex, thanks to a conservation project.
The Sussex Wildlife Trust said a handful of shy and secretive bitterns were wintering at Combe Haven, near Hastings.
Trust reserves manager Mark Pearson said: "I am delighted to report we have firm evidence of bitterns visiting the reedbed at Filsham.
"In addition to bitterns we also hope to attract other rare birds such as the spotted crake. We also hope to attract rare plants such as the marsh orchid."
Only 19 bitterns, which are a member of the heron family, were recorded in England three years ago.
Drainage at the reedbeds has been improved as part of the Filsham Bittern Project and a viewing platform built for visitors.
Combe Haven had been threatened by the proposed Hastings and Bexhill bypass, rejected by the Government in 2001.
The Filsham Reedbed local nature reserve is owned by Hastings Borough Council.
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