Hi and welcome to my Blog, my name is Paul Riddle and I live in south Leicestershire, UK. Back in August 2007 my quest began to locate as many local Little Owl territories as possible. The driving force was a reported decline in the uk numbers so I thought I would do my bit and conduct a study in my area. After 7 years and countless hours out in the field I have detected over 200 different sites. With a thirst for a greater understanding of the owls a more comprehensive monitoring and nest box programme then commenced. This also now includes monitoring the local and very sparse population of Barn Owls, please pop back occasionally and catch up with the life and times of my owls and any other wildlife that I come across. I hope you enjoy your visit!!!

Friday, 30 September 2011

Flighty Falcon

Something a little different this evening..........Kestrels!

A couple of very enjoyable hours were spent at a local beauty spot with this very handsome raptor. The sun was low in the sky which complemented the birds plumage and feather detail but also sadly created some very strong shadows at times. Without doubt the best in-flight & hovering images I have ever managed of this species, a lot easier (and less frustrating) than trying to capture an owl in flight! I had at least 150 images to choose from and it was a difficult task to know which ones to upload as they were all of equal quality.

So rather than swamp this post with loads of in-flight images (which were the best on the day by the way) I have selected various postures & poses to share....... 

Double click any image for a larger and far more detailed version.

Hovering overhead..


Dinner time, a grub of some kind?


More hovering.


A distant landing.......& rest time!


Perched up high.


This "in flight" & not hovering image is my favourite of the day!


I must admit I really enjoyed working with a different subject for a change, it offered different challenges  to that of the owls. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this very confiding individual hangs around as my appetite has been whetted now and I want some more!
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3 comments:

  1. Millhouse Photography1 October 2011 at 09:04

    Excellent series of a fantastic Bird of Prey - one of my absolute favourites actually, and I think that they are often overlooked because they are so commonly seen. I think your 'distant landing' shot is a peach.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ornitocampero.blogspot.com.es6 October 2011 at 11:18

    Beautifull last picture.....!!
    Saludos camperos.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Paul Riddle17 October 2011 at 23:45

    Cheers guys.

    ReplyDelete

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