Kingfisher at Cockwood

On my way to Powderham this morning and just as I reached the road running adjacent to the Estate and the shoreline bordered by the rail track, I spotted a Kingfisher as I sped by on my “Chinese motor scooter”. I have taken to carrying my camera on it’s tripod balanced between my legs and I came to a quick stop and struggled with the camera to try to get a photo. I almost made it but the bird, only 10 feet from me teased by staying until I pointed the camera and was gone as quick as it had arrived…….. in a flash! So close, and it would have been a beauty, but life is full of “would have beens”

No sooner had I arrived at my usual viewing point overlooking the estate, when the Osprey put in yet another appearance. Pathetic photos were taken but it only illustrates how fortunate I had been yesterday. Mind you to quite Gary Player, the more time I put in the luckier I am!

Inside Cockwood Harbour as the tide went out, lots of waders and gulls flew in to take advantage of the newly exposed ground and pools. yet another Kingfisher flew past me and settled on this rock covered with sea weed and proceeded to fish in the little pool. I crept as close as I dare and got a couple of shots, hardly prize winners but the best I have got so far.

As well as this Kingfisher there were Curlew, Redshank various gulls and the Slavonian Grebe in the distance.

I took the opportunity to practise “in-flight” shots with the gulls passing by. It is a shame that Herring Gulls have such an evil disposition because at times they can look quite atractive, particularly in flight.


Herring Gull

Black Headed Gull