Kingfishers at Rye Meads, 5th August 2022

The Kingfishers are on their 3rd brood at the Kingfisher hub and as they are feeding young I knew visits would be frequent so time for an afternoon visit when the light would be less harsh. However, before that, a quick look from the Draper hide which produced a Green Sandpiper close in.

There was also some Little Egret activity, obviously a territorial dispute.

On the way to the Kingfisher hub, I had a surprise encounter on the path with a young Muntjac.

I only had brief views of the female Kingfisher as she perched with a fish.

The male was more evident and after bringing in a fish, perched up for some shots.

He took some time out to keep the feathers in top condition.

I only managed one decent flight shot.

Despite trying to take a short break he was constantly buzzed at one point by a Wasp!

Whilst most of the fish were caught off site, he suddenly dived in from the perch and surfaced with a young Mirror Carp. He flew to the next perch and proceeded to subdue it before taking it for one of the youngsters. It was a long and brutal struggle!

In fact, the process went on for so long I switched to video and got a short sequence.

A fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.