Slavonian Grebe
Slavonian Grebe / podiceps auritus. Straws Bridge, Derbyshire. 21/02/21.
The light had been abysmal when the Slavonian Grebe finally transferred to the main, (largest) lake at Straws Bridge. Probably not a wise move on it's part, because of the high number of ducks, geese and aggressive swans there, plus the polluted state of the water. Anyway, it managed to get itself there and join the throng.
Despite diving frequently, I didn't see it surface with a fish very often. I can only think it was finding smaller prey items and eating them underwater. The swans in particular, took offence to it's presence and constantly harassed it.
Late afternoon the grebe popped up right in front me holding this Three-spined Stickleback in it's beak ... a well deserved meal after a fraught day spent ducking and diving.
I wish there had been soft golden light when I made the image, but it was not to be. Grey was the order of the day!
Slavonian Grebe
Slavonian Grebe / podiceps auritus. Straws Bridge, Derbyshire. 21/02/21.
The light had been abysmal when the Slavonian Grebe finally transferred to the main, (largest) lake at Straws Bridge. Probably not a wise move on it's part, because of the high number of ducks, geese and aggressive swans there, plus the polluted state of the water. Anyway, it managed to get itself there and join the throng.
Despite diving frequently, I didn't see it surface with a fish very often. I can only think it was finding smaller prey items and eating them underwater. The swans in particular, took offence to it's presence and constantly harassed it.
Late afternoon the grebe popped up right in front me holding this Three-spined Stickleback in it's beak ... a well deserved meal after a fraught day spent ducking and diving.
I wish there had been soft golden light when I made the image, but it was not to be. Grey was the order of the day!