A Summer Morning at Warnham Local Nature Reserve
There’s something magical about Warnham Local Nature Reserve in the heart of summer. As a wildlife photographer, I’ve visited this Sussex gem many times, but each trip feels new — filled with unique encounters and quiet moments that remind me why I love birdwatching and nature photography in the UK.
The morning began with an Aylesbury Duck gliding gracefully across the still water, creating gentle ripples in the reflection of the sky. Moments later, a Common Tern appeared, cutting through the air before diving elegantly for its breakfast — a perfect example of the reserve’s rich and dynamic birdlife.
Along the edges of the water, flashes of colour brought the reeds to life. An Emperor Dragonfly patrolled its territory with shimmering wings, while a delicate Red-eyed Damselfly clung to the stems, catching the light just right. These smaller subjects always add a touch of vibrancy to any day of wildlife photography at Warnham.
The waterfowl were out in abundance too. Gadwall and Moorhen families moved quietly through the shallows, their young following closely behind. Nearby, a Mute Swan family glided across the lake, their single cygnet keeping perfectly in line. Watching these moments of calm family life on the water always brings a sense of peace.
A Grey Heron stood poised and motionless at the edge of the lake, waiting patiently for its next meal. Then, just as the scene settled, a sudden flash of electric blue cut through the reeds — a Kingfisher, always a favourite among UK birdwatchers and photographers alike.
But the standout moment of the day came when I caught a female Tufted Duck in flight, her wings catching the light as she passed overhead. It was a brief, perfect moment — one of those captures that reminds you how quickly beauty can appear and vanish in the wild.
Every visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve offers something new. Whether it’s the subtle movements of familiar waterfowl, the vibrant dance of dragonflies, or the brief visit of a Kingfisher, this reserve never disappoints. For anyone passionate about wildlife photography or birdwatching in the UK, Warnham remains a must-visit location — a place where patience, light, and nature come together in perfect balance.
