PhaymerPhoto - Blog

A Kingfisher Quest at Riverside Park - Part 1 

In my latest adventure, I set out to find the elusive Kingfisher bird in Southampton's Riverside Park, located in the Bitterne Park area. Capturing a Kingfisher in the wild has been a dream of mine for a while, and this year, I'm determined to make it happen.

After researching local sightings, I discovered that Riverside Park was a promising spot. Armed with my camera and bundled up against the cold, I ventured out early one morning. From what I learned, the best time to catch a glimpse of a Kingfisher is at dawn, and despite the ideal months being April to August, I decided to try my luck just before Christmas.

I arrived at the park around 7 am. It was freezing, and still dark, but the sun was just beginning to rise. I began my walk near Woodmill, heading toward the Swan pub, all the while scanning for a bright blue bird with an orange breast.

Based on my research, I knew the Kingfisher had been seen along the banks of the River Itchen, and I was keenly aware of their distinctive 'Peep' call. Even though the initial light was promising, it soon flattened out, making photography challenging.

As I walked, I heard a 'Peep' from my left, which stopped me in my tracks. I searched the opposite bank but saw no sign of the bright blue feathers. I continued toward the pub, hopeful. At the first bend, I set up my tripod and used my 70-200mm f2.8 lens. The low light meant I had to use long exposures, with my first shot at f8, a 25-second shutter speed, and ISO 100, bracketed with three shots for better exposure in post-production. If you're interested in my editing process, feel free to reach out!

Continuing towards Mansbridge Bridge, I stopped again as the warm light hit the water just right. Adjusting my settings for the increased light, I captured another shot before moving on. Despite hearing the occasional 'Peep' and scanning for that tell-tale blue, I didn't spot the Kingfisher on my way to the Swan pub and back. I did, however, manage to photograph some ducks, geese, and swans along the way.

Finally, as I was about to head home, coffee in hand, I heard another 'Peep.' Looking to my right, I saw a flash of blue and orange. A Kingfisher! I quickly unpacked my camera and cautiously followed its movements from branch to branch. Unfortunately, it stayed just out of range, and after a few fleeting glimpses, it flew out of sight.

Though I didn't capture the perfect shot, the sighting confirmed that Kingfishers do inhabit Riverside Park. With more practice and patience, I’m confident that I will eventually get the photograph I've been dreaming of. Stay tuned for more updates on my quest!