Couple of kingfisher questions..

[littlemonster]

Ooook, so... a local fishing lake has had a couple of kingfishers visiting in the mornings apparently. Not 100% confirmed, but seems likely to be true.


So bearing in mind sunrise is about 5:20ish currently, what sort of time would you aim to be getting there? Most of the fisherman start arriving 8-9 and they don't seem to be around then. Although the couple at 6 havent seen them either.. not sure how regular a bird they are?

Anyhoo, just not sure if I should be arriving for 5ish.. 4ish? :shrug:

I know there's no exact answer but if anyone could help with ideas of times I'd like it

Also, as said are they a regular bird, so likely to be there most days, or is it possible they only go once every few days?:shrug:

 

[arclight]

Unless you are going to be sitting in a hide at a spot where the birds visit regularly you will be heavily dependant on luck. Birds tend to be active early in the morning, but 0400 is probably too early. I'd guess at starting around 0600.
Have you asked the fishermen if they see them?

I weekly walk where there are Kingfishers but don't make a dedicated effort to see them. I encounter them only 2 to 3 times per year.

Hope you get a pic or two.

 

[brianp55]

hi gemma , i would try to be at the lake for first light, set up a hide in a known visiting area with shallow margins, set some sort of perch in the edge for it to land on with a clear view from hide. i have managed this far but never managed the perfect shot, good luck.

 

[CT]

I'd be inclined to get there for first light or just before which I've found is a good time to see KFs although the light might not be particularly good. If you can try to set up so that the sun comes up behind you, or at least not right in front which makes things very difficult.

These birds often have a 'beat which they patrol a few times a day, returning to the same perch at intervals through the day. Unfortunately you can't guarantee anything though - my advice is start early and stick it out as long as the light lasts. Be patient - it will all be worth it if you get a shot or two.

Good luck!