Kestrel Hunting at Bushy Park – A Memorable First Visit

Welcome to my wildlife photography journal! Visiting a new location always brings a sense of anticipation, never quite knowing what wildlife encounters the day might have in store. My first visit to Bushy Park on 19th July 2026 certainly lived up to expectations, thanks to an incredibly obliging Kestrel that provided some unforgettable photographic opportunities.

For much of the visit, the Kestrel patrolled the park's dry grassland, demonstrating exactly why it is regarded as one of Britain's most accomplished birds of prey. Watching it hover effortlessly into the breeze before suddenly dropping into the long grass in search of prey was fascinating. Every movement was deliberate and precise, showcasing the remarkable hunting techniques that make this species such a successful predator.

The bird also treated me to some fantastic flight photography. On one occasion it returned carrying a freshly caught dragonfly, while at other times it performed elegant banking turns high against the summer sky. Capturing these moments in flight is always challenging, requiring quick reactions and accurate tracking, but it's also one of the most rewarding aspects of wildlife photography when everything comes together.

Although Bushy Park was a completely new location for me, it immediately proved why it has such a good reputation for wildlife. Having a Kestrel perform so well throughout the morning made for a memorable introduction and left me looking forward to returning in the future. First visits don't always deliver memorable encounters, but this one certainly exceeded my expectations.

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed sharing this encounter with one of Britain's most graceful birds of prey. Be sure to explore my other wildlife photography journal entries, where I'll continue documenting memorable species, fascinating behaviours, and adventures from reserves and nature hotspots across the UK.