A Tense Encounter on the Water at Warnham Local Nature Reserve

On the 25th of May, I witnessed one of those unexpected and thrilling moments that remind you just how dynamic nature can be — especially at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. While quietly observing the water, my attention was drawn to a sudden burst of activity near a pair of Great Crested Grebes with chicks.

A Coot, seemingly unaware (or perhaps unbothered), drifted too close to the grebe family. What followed was a dramatic display of parental instinct. The grebe parents, fiercely protective of their young, reacted immediately — puffing up, calling out, and making it very clear that the intruder was not welcome.

These kinds of territorial displays are not uncommon during the breeding season, but to see it unfold so clearly — and to be in the right place at the right time to photograph it — was a real privilege.

This moment reminded me again why I keep coming back to Warnham. With patience and a bit of luck, there's always something captivating happening just beneath the surface. Whether it's dramatic encounters like this or the quiet beauty of a dragonfly resting on a reed, nature truly never disappoints.

📷 I've included a few of my favourite shots from the encounter below. I hope they give you a sense of the intensity and beauty of the moment.

Tags:
#WarnhamLocalNatureReserve #GreatCrestedGrebe #Coot #BirdBehaviour #WildlifePhotography #UKBirds #NatureMoments #GrebeChicks #BirdEncounters #BritishWildlife