Red Kites Galore!

Recently I returned to the Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest. I was driving by just after 2:00 PM and saw dozens and dozens of Red Kites circling the small lake on site. I thought as I drove west towards Aberystwyth, if there’s an open space in the layby at the entrance to the visitor center, I’m going to go stop and try to grab some pictures! As luck would have it, there was a spot open and a gap in oncoming traffic that let me scoot right into the layby and park. A walk of about 50m and I was in a position to start taking photos. The walk down near the lakeside isn’t too far either, so after securing a few shots from distance, I walked down to see if I could get some more from a nearer vantage. I secured a few shots I am very pleased with. I hope you enjoy them!

This first batch is comprised of just a few snapshots captured from a distance mostly. I like them because they show some of the colors and textures of the landscape behind the soaring birds… even an out of focus sheep!

Next are my favorites where I was able to get relatively close and follow the birds in flight with the sun largely coming from behind just to the side and illuminating the birds well, limiting the amount I had to lift shadows in post.

These images were captured with the recently released Nikon Z-Mount 180-600mm telephoto lens. What an amazing piece of kit! I have it paired with my Nikon Z5 and, while I love my Z5, having the capability of the 180-600 lens has opened up my world to bird photography in a revolutionary way. I am seriously considering updating my camera body to the Z8. I figure if I can continue to get good photos with the Z5, it will translate to better photography when I upgrade (eventually).

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