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!
Kingfisher Quest Part 2 - And Sadly, the Final Part...Maybe
The quest to capture the elusive Kingfisher has come to an end—not because I've given up, nor because I haven't spotted one at Riverside Park, but due to a change in my gear. Parting ways with my trusty 70-200mm f2.8 lens has made capturing these birds from a distance nearly impossible. From my research and previous experiences, Kingfishers are incredibly perceptive and shy, making it exceedingly difficult to maintain focus or sight while staying in one place.
The decision to part with the lens was driven by several factors:
Cost: The hefty price tag wasn't justified by the infrequent use.
Idle Time: It spent too much time sitting on the shelf.
Weight: Weighing in at a hefty 1.45kg, it proved cumbersome for handheld shooting over prolonged periods.
Since purchasing the Sony 24-50mm f2.8 lens, it hasn't left my camera. I absolutely adore everything about it! The weight and focal range perfectly align with my needs. Since acquiring it in late August 2024, I've had to force myself to use the larger lens—a stark reminder that photography should be a joy, not a chore.
So, does this signify the end of my Kingfisher quest? In reality, it likely does. If I manage to capture a Kingfisher at Riverside Park, it will be purely by chance. However, my visits to Riverside Park will continue. Living in Southampton, I'm fortunate to have places like Riverside Park that bring nature to people and provide natural habitats for numerous species. It's a fantastic spot to visit alone or with friends and family, offering ample open spaces along the river.
While the Kingfisher quest may be on hold, I'll be focusing on my New Forest blog. So, stay tuned for more adventures!
Happy shooting!
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