Having had the unfortunate experience this morning before 8, I gave it all a bit of thought and realised that the factory workers would be cooped up inside earning their crust for the majority of the day. So, after lunch I returned to the brook confident that there would be peace and quiet. I was right, and apart from a 10 minute period when they were allowed a “fag’ break, they were slaving away indoors. My reason for return was to try and get closer to the Grey Wagtails and consequently better, crisper shots. It worked well and I did get closer. The light was not quite right but the standard of shots did improve. It was also very interesting as I got to know, not only this species but the individuals concerned. For instance, I am pretty sure that the bird above is a female and at one point another Wagtail settled opposite and called. This caused the hen to crouch. This was either an alarm call and the hen crouched to escape predation, or she reacted in a submissive way to the superior bird. I also watched her feeding on small flying insects, at times leaping up to take them on the wing. I saw her foraging in the mud for larvae, probably Drone Fly larvae which I know live in stagnant mud and breath through a “snorkel”.

Sitting there I secretly hoped that the Kingfisher might put in an appearance, but no such luck today. I will keep looking though……. watch this space as they say. I was intrigued though, when a Carrion Crow landed in the water and began feeding on spiders that he delicately picked from the side walls. He gradually moved towards me. Engrossed in this activity, he got closer and closer till eventually he was right in front of me, perhaps 2 feet away, then he suddenly realised I was there and I got the impression he was disappointed with himself to be caught out like he was. Can you image, this photo was taken in what is basically a foul watercourse through an industrial estate but this photo looks like it was taken in some exotic location, Africa or somewhere like that.

He stopped to look and listen from time to time but still hadn’t noticed me and at one time called out as you can see. My aim and ambition with this Blog is to post the very best pictures possible. I really am trying to turn myself in to the very best amateur wildlife photographer that I can. To get good shots of a Carrion Crow and make them look attractive is very pleasing for me.