Buzzard vs Marsh Harrier – Aerial Drama at Elmley Nature Reserve

There are moments in wildlife photography that remind you just how raw and dramatic nature can be—and this was definitely one of them.

During a recent visit to Elmley Nature Reserve, I witnessed an extraordinary encounter between two magnificent birds of prey: a Buzzard and a Marsh Harrier. The Buzzard was in hot pursuit, chasing down the Harrier in a determined attempt to make it drop its catch. What followed was a breathtaking aerial display, full of twists, turns, and split-second reactions as the Marsh Harrier desperately held onto its prize.

This kind of behaviour isn’t uncommon in the wild—opportunistic birds will often try to steal food from one another—but seeing it unfold in real-time was something else entirely. It was fast, intense, and full of tension. You could feel the struggle in every movement as both birds used every ounce of their agility and strength in mid-air.

Elmley provided the perfect setting for such a spectacle. The reserve never disappoints when it comes to bird activity, and this encounter was a stark reminder of how competitive life can be for wildlife. Every meal is hard-earned, and sometimes, it becomes a battle in the skies.

I've shared some of the shots I captured during this moment—I'd love to hear what you think. Whether you're a fellow wildlife photographer or just someone who enjoys the raw beauty of nature, I hope these images give you a small taste of the drama I was lucky enough to witness.