Saturday, 2 June 2018

Dartford Warbler

I made an early morning visit to Kelling Heath at the weekend. I was hoping for Cuckoo and possibly a chance to get some better shots of the Yellowhammer that are in abundance. I did much much better than that with a fly pass by a Turtle Dove and a very lucky chance meeting with a pair of Dartford Warbler that were actively gathering food for their young.

I've seen the Dartford Warbler on just a few occasions and never with a camera to hand, so when this pair popped up out of the gorse not 20 feet in front of me I swore very quietly in shock. I stood still and just let them carry on doing what they were doing. I didn't want to frighten them off, I wanted to observe them. Patience and stealth is crucial at moments like this. One false move and your moment will be gone.


They didn't even seem to notice me, as they were busy looking for grubs and insects. Time to prime the camera and see what I could get. .

They stayed around for some time, ignoring me. I just wish the light was a bit better, but I can't really complain with what I got. Absolutely delighted!!




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14 comments:

  1. eileeninmd2 June 2018 at 15:28

    Hello, great series on this cute warbler. Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Happy Saturday, enjoy your weekend!

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  2. A Colorful World2 June 2018 at 17:56

    Great encounter! Loved the photos of these sweet birds.

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  3. Phil Slade4 June 2018 at 10:52

    It must be so nice to have Dartford Warblers within striking distance. They never make it up here Adam. Like you say, stealth and patience is the key.

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  4. Carol @Comfort Spring Station4 June 2018 at 15:54

    Beautiful shots - they're plucky little birds

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  5. NCSue4 June 2018 at 17:09

    A pretty little fella.
    Thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/06/the-retreat-house.html

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  6. Fun604 June 2018 at 22:13

    Excellent photos.

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  7. Valerie4 June 2018 at 23:30

    Wonderful captures Adam - just goes to show that patience, persistence and perseverance pays off !

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  8. Liz Needle5 June 2018 at 02:46

    Wonderful shots. No wonder you were pleased with your results. Such sweet little birds.

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  9. Stewart M5 June 2018 at 11:45

    This is a bird I have always wanted to see - it really was rare when I was a kid. Is it more common than 25 years ago?

    Cheers - Stewart M - Melbourne

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  10. Lea5 June 2018 at 12:14

    Beautiful! Wonderful!

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  11. Rohrerbot5 June 2018 at 21:21

    That is one good looking bird. Congrats!

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  12. Kay L. Davies5 June 2018 at 22:23

    Those warblers are obviously very good parents. I am going to be a silly old lady (which I am) and say I think they're adorable.
    Kay
    An Unfittie's Guide to Adventurous Travel

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  13. Betty J. Crow6 June 2018 at 16:41

    Patience is often key to a shot. Yours paid off. Very nice shots!

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  14. Rambling Woods10 June 2018 at 00:49

    I would be delighted too....Michelle

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