Kingfisher perched before flying up to nest

An early morning visit to the local river after taking Helena to catch a train to London at 8am. Having not seen a kingfisher on the canal yesterday I was keen to remedy that failure.

I saw one as soon as I arrived on the river bank, but it was shrouded whilst perched behind the leaves. But over th next hour I saw several flying up to two distinct nest holes and watched them fly back and forth, although their fishing was achieved further up and downstream. But it was a delight nevertheless. The dark conditions in the shade are still a problem so this is not a great picture, but it does show their vibrant colour if not the intricate detail on the feathers. I shall return. The ever present dippers only added to the spectacle.