A Day of Wildlife Wonders at Elmley Nature Reserve

On 19th April 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a full day at Elmley Nature Reserve—and what an incredible day it turned out to be. Elmley is always a special place, but this visit truly reminded me why I love wildlife photography. The light was spectacular, the skies wide and open, and there was wildlife everywhere I turned.

Throughout the day, I managed to photograph a wonderful variety of species, each offering a unique moment to capture. One of the early highlights was witnessing a Buzzard being chased across the sky by a persistent Crow—a dramatic aerial display that really set the tone for the day. Later, I caught another Buzzard in graceful flight, perfectly framed against the expansive landscape.

The wetlands and open meadows were teeming with activity. I enjoyed close views of a Cattle Egret, a Common Redshank delicately foraging, and a sleek Cormorant stretching its wings. A Greylag Goose also made an appearance, posing beautifully for the camera.

One unexpected treat was spotting a Hare out in the open—always a thrill when they’re not darting for cover. A male Northern Shoveler stood out with his striking plumage, and I was lucky enough to catch a Pied Avocet mid-preen, its curved bill and black-and-white markings looking especially elegant.

As the day drew on, the light only improved, bathing everything in a warm, golden glow. I finished the session with some pleasing shots of a Pied Wagtail, a Skylark in mid-song, and a particularly vibrant Yellow Wagtail.

Days like this—when everything aligns from the weather to the wildlife—are what make this craft so rewarding. Elmley offered up so many photographic opportunities, and I left feeling completely inspired.

📸 I’ll be sharing a selection of the images on my social media and website soon—feel free to let me know which ones stand out to you the most!