Earlier in the year I went to Frampton to get some shots of a Black necked Grebe. It was a nice bird but it was in rather dull winter plumage. This week I had the opportunity of a trip to Cheshire with Chris G to photograph them in summer plumage. I say them because there were at least 5 birds present.
A slightly later start than planned meant that we didn't arrive until well after 10 am. A quick familiarisation with the location showed three different hides. Two of them were not ideal for photography purposes but the third was and fortunately it was from this hide that we got the best views.
The birds were coming close for a few minutes then moving away again presumably searching for the easiest food. This one has a caddis fly larvae in its mouth.
They are a very pretty bird, bigger than their relative the Little Grebe.
The reserve warden told us that they have returned after a two year absence, but they have not nested or produced eggs.
On a different part of the reserve we were treated to something I've never experienced before. Close up shots of a young fox. Not this years cub by the look of him but last years. This character, although wary of us at first, seemed happy enough to rest near a small pond and allow us to get some excellent shots. Here are three of the many shots I took.
He was a bit shabby, his rear end was clearly not looking too great, I wasn't worried though this is the closest I've been to a wild fox for many a year.
Look at the nashers on him, wouldn't wanna be a bit of his food.
He lay at the side of the pond for quite a while and although aware of our presence he paid us very little heed, I think the heat had gotten to him.
I don't doubt that he was after the rabbits on the reserve, there were many of them.
Beautiful little critters I hope you would agree.
A very enjoyable day. Black necked Grebe, Red Fox and a good old brown rabbit or two.
