I had not been for a while so it was great to have an early morning at Slimbridge WWT on the River Severn in Gloucestershire. There are many distinct seasons at Slimbridge and my very favourite is the Winter Months, but it is also good to go there during the breeding season.
Avocets have only arrived here in recent years, but they are already colonising well. It was great to observe this one turning the eggs before settling back down to incubation duties.
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| The eggs have to be turned regularly |
On the "Rushy" there were a pair of Little Ringed Plovers and with a bit of patience I waited for them to get within range, as they are quite a small bird to photograph. I was so pleased when they came right in front of the hide.
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| Male Little Ringed Plover |
I had only ever photographed these before on one other occasion so it was great to fill my boots (or memory cards) with these beauties.
At first glance there did not seem to be much activity in the "Martin Smith" hide but then this beautiful female Kingfisher appeared. She caught three fish in rapid succession before going on her way. They have got to be one of the most colourful birds found in the UK
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| Female Kingfisher |
The female can be easily distinguished from the males by having an orangey red lower mandible. It's also easy to remember as you can think that the females where lip stick! (well in my day!).
That was a great morning and I must do it again real soon.
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