I'd never seen a Kingfisher before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I chose this hide specifically because there were a pair living nearby, the female further down the river tending a clutch of eggs. The male visited several times throughout the day.

They're funny little birds. Much smaller than you'd think, with a noddy head that bobs up and down before diving into the water. The blue on its head isn't actually blue, which I found mind-blowing. It's iridescent, the structure of the feathers scattering the light to amplify blue tones, while suppressing reds.

Once the eggs have hatched, this little fella will be expected to feed each chick up to 18 fish every day, which will keep him very busy. For today, he is focussed on feeding himself and his mate. You can tell whether a fish is for him or the missus by the orientation; if it goes in his mouth tail-first, then it's her turn.

I made several attempts at capturing him diving for a fish. None of these shots are completely in focus. These little blighters are lightning fast - it's going to take a bit of practice to nail it properly. Maybe next time.

These photographs were taken with the Sony A7R V and the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM.

Equipment used

Camera

Sony A7R V

Lens

Sony 300mm f/2.8 GM

About the photographer

I'm Alex Nichol. I'm an amateur photographer from the North of England. For me, photography is a way to share what I love most about the world. That includes everything, from family and friends, to wild animals and breathtaking places... or maybe just how the sun twinkles on a weed in my back garden. It's all fair game.

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