Photos of an Eisvogel or Martin pecheur - English: River Kingfisher (Alcedinidae)
<Back view photo by Wolf Peter Weber, with head profile of a flashy little Eisvogel or River Kingfisher on a branch>
In Dec. of 2009 I had my 1st sighting of this striking little Eisvogel from a small bridge across
the Hunte River in Northern Germany. The minute I raised my camera the bird was gone...
A year later I returned to the same spot and managed one (..!) lousy shot. Over about 2 weeks
each winter, I would attempt another go, weather permitting. Finally in Dec 2011 the bird
appeared first under the bridge (bottom right), then in a bush, safe from predators, some
20 yards away, a yard or so above the water. This time I packed a lens which allowed for
me to remain at somewhat of a discreet distance. Consider the results a starter scoop...
While the swift little ace performed his disappearing acts or wouldn't appear at all, I would get a chance to photograph other types of birds and waterfowl in the vicinity; even Mandarin Ducks!
Also, quite surprisingly, Zwergtauchers (Little Grebes) plus a few Moorhens and weirdos...
<2 small front/side images by Wolf P. Weber of an Eisvogel or River Kingfisher, left in a bush, right on a bridge support>
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