A Lucky Encounter with a Common Tern at Ifield Mill Pond

Some days in wildlife photography, everything comes together in a single, fleeting moment. During a quiet morning visit to Ifield Mill Pond, I was fortunate enough to witness and capture one of nature’s most spectacular displays – a Common Tern diving for fish.

These elegant birds are a joy to watch, with their slender wings and graceful flight patterns. What makes them truly special, though, is the speed and accuracy with which they hunt. In a matter of seconds, this tern spotted its prey from above, folded its wings, and plunged headfirst into the water. Moments later, it emerged victorious – a shimmering fish clutched tightly in its beak.

As a photographer, it’s always thrilling to freeze such a fast, precise movement in a single frame. Encounters like these remind me why I spend so many early mornings by the water’s edge, waiting patiently for that perfect shot.

Ifield Mill Pond continues to be a fantastic location for birdwatching and photography, offering both peaceful surroundings and the chance to observe incredible wildlife behavior up close.

I’d love to know what you think – which shot of the Common Tern is your favourite?

📸 Date: 13th July 2025
📍 Location: Ifield Mill Pond, UK