Bird Behaviour – Bird Lens

Young Barn Swallow begging for food on a wire

On a warm summer evening, as the sun began to dip below the horizon on the southern shore of Gülper See (Lake Guelpe) young Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) perched precariously on a rusty wire, its tiny wings quivering with anticipation. The scene was alive with the twittering of swallows, but the juveniles all had a… Continue reading Young Barn Swallow begging for food on a wire

A Stonechat’s Guard: The Fierce Defense of Territory

As the sun rises, casting a warm glow over the brambles, a flash of color catches the eye—a male Stonechat (Saxicola rubicola) perched proudly atop a blackberry bush (Rubus fruticosus). His striking black head and orange chest gleam in the morning light, but beneath his charming appearance lies the heart of a warrior. Stonechats are… Continue reading A Stonechat’s Guard: The Fierce Defense of Territory

Hoopoe: a fascinating bird in human history.

In medieval Europe the Hoopoe (Upupa epops), was an evil omen, while today in Israel the Hoopoe is the national bird. Whether loved or hated, the Hoopoe is a fascinating and fascinating bird that holds a special place in human history. The Hoopoe, with its sun-like crest and distinctive plumage, has held an important place… Continue reading Hoopoe: a fascinating bird in human history.

Torrent Duck on a rock washed by waves in the Rio Huallaga/ Peru

The journey through the Huallaga Valley in Peru can be quick due to the good condition of the roads. And, the many mining towns do not invite you to linger. But sometimes the journey through these rough landscapes holds surprises, such as an encounter with a Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata). These impressive birds are known… Continue reading Torrent Duck on a rock washed by waves in the Rio Huallaga/ Peru

Female House Sparrow and Tipula paludosa

One bright morning, with the sun casting a golden hue over the meadow, a female House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) perched on a iron stick. With her sharp eyes she had spotted the movement of Tipula paludosa larva beneath the soil. With a swift, practiced motion, she plucked the wriggling larva from its hiding place, securing… Continue reading Female House Sparrow and Tipula paludosa

Photographing Red-backed Shrikes in Germany

The male of the Red-backed Shrike (Lanius collurio) sits exposed on an Elderberry branch (Sambucus nigra) protruding from the hedge. For years, this small shrike has been found in the midst of a wet forest meadow landscape during the breeding season. In the North German Plain the Red-backed Shrike is still widespread, but the population… Continue reading Photographing Red-backed Shrikes in Germany

Common Snipe: Air transport in case of danger

Still completely disheveled and barely freed from the eggshell, the tiny Common Snipe chick (Gallinago gallinago) sets off to explore the surrounding area of a peat bog. With every step the little precocious bird becomes safer and braver. A little too brave, supose its mother. Because the little one steps out into the open meadow.… Continue reading Common Snipe: Air transport in case of danger

Mountain Peacock-Pheasant in a spectacular mating display

A male Mountain Peacock-Pheasant (Polyplectron inopinatum) enhances his performance with subtle feather vibrations. By shaking his tail feathers, he produces a rustling sound that adds an auditory dimension to his courtship ritual.The courtship display of the Mountain Peacock-Pheasant is a meticulously choreographed performance designed to captivate the female. 2 hours before: At 6:00 I’m already… Continue reading Mountain Peacock-Pheasant in a spectacular mating display

Curious Young Great Spotted Woodpecker

After hatching, young Great Spotted Woodpeckers (Dendrocopos major) are completely helpless but soon they take on a life of their own. Spring is a wonderful time for nature watchers. The forests are full of life and activity, and one of the most beautiful sights is that of a young Great Spotted Woodpecker curiously looking out… Continue reading Curious Young Great Spotted Woodpecker

A Wryneck presenting its tongue

A Eurasian Wryneck (Jynx torquilla) sits on a branch of Black Elder (Sambucus nigra) in the first light of morning. He sunbathes and yawns. He opens his beak wide. An extension shoots out like a dagger. The wryneck shows his tongue! The tongue of a Eurasian Wryneck is surprisingly long when fully extended. It’s pointed… Continue reading A Wryneck presenting its tongue

Arctic Tern with caught fish on return flight

I recently had the incredible opportunity to observe and photograph a male Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) during its return flight with a caught fish on the southern coast of Ireland. Witnessing this elegant bird in action was a truly remarkable experience. We positioned ourselves in an area known for Arctic Tern activity, hoping to capture… Continue reading Arctic Tern with caught fish on return flight

Roseate Terns at Lady’s Island in southern Ireland

Imagine walking along the tranquil shores of the Irish Sea and Atlantic Ocean, the rhythmic waves gently touching the sand. Suddenly a delicate bird catches your eye – its slender shape and graceful flight are a testament to nature’s elegance. This is the Roseate Tern (Sterna dougallii), a very bright, graceful seabird that occasionally displays… Continue reading Roseate Terns at Lady’s Island in southern Ireland