I‘ve been having a bit of a cull in here to make room for new images next year. The work took way longer than expected, so new photographs have been piling up and I seem to have another back log. Never mind.
These were taken on a trip to Stodmarsh nature reserve in the middle of September. It normally takes three visits each autumn until I finally come away with something worthwhile. True to form, the first trip was a waste of time, as the only kingfisher spotted that day kept well away from the hide. The light on the second outing was neither one thing nor another and more importantly, was before the addition of a brand new stick! One perch that had been used the year before had been removed some time ago, leaving just one rather sorry looking branch. It had been bleached by the sun and had very little character, but it was the only one available.
As soon as I read on a birding group that a new, moss-covered stick had mysteriously appeared overnight, I was planning my third trip of the year. It was a very sunny day and for a change, I moved to the far end of the hide, allowing some lovely green reeds to show behind the kingfisher.
These final images were taken more than two hours after the ones above and the huge difference in colour is clear to see. Here’s hoping this new perch “sticks” around for next year.
Steve
20 Dec 2025Cracking shots as per normal. Hope to see you in the new year 🙂
Zooey
21 Dec 2025Thank you Steve. I really hope there is something to photograph next year. I’m not having any luck on the entrance track at Elmley and I was told all their SEOs are nocturnal now 🙁
Sid
22 Dec 2025Hello 🙂
Stunning photos, adorable kingfisher!
I do love ☺️♥️
Have a great Monday!
Sid
Zooey
22 Dec 2025I’m glad you enjoyed the kingfisher Sid. You have a great Monday too! 🙂