Paul Cross Photography

Website - Blog With More Images 31 August 2024 will forever be etched in my memory as one of those magical days where nature takes centre stage and leaves you in absolute awe. That day, I visited the serene and scenic Hayling Island Oyster Beds, a spot known for its unique blend of coastal beauty and thriving wildlife. As I strolled along the coastline, camera in hand, I was treated to a stunning encounter: a flock of elegant Grey Plovers soaring effortlessly across the sky. Watching them navigate the breeze with such grace was mesmerizing. These beautiful birds, with their soft, subtle colouring, contrasted against the vibrant blues and greens of the sea and sky, creating a moment so captivating that I almost forgot to lift my camera! The Grey Plovers seemed to be as curious about their surroundings as I was, gliding above the oyster beds and sweeping across the coastline as if they were putting on a show just for us lucky onlookers. The light was perfect, illuminating their feathers ...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something uniquely serene about an early morning spent in nature, especially at a place as peaceful as Warnham Nature Reserve. On the morning of August 26, 2024, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in this magical landscape, and it turned out to be one of those days that remind you just how incredible the natural world can be. As the mist lifted and the morning light settled, the reserve came to life with the gentle sounds and sights of wildlife. One of my first encounters was with a Chiffchaff. This delicate bird seemed to embody the quiet joy of the early hours, flitting through the branches, taking in the morning in its own special way. There’s a particular beauty in witnessing these subtle, peaceful moments—moments that often go unnoticed but are always happening around us. Then, I was treated to an awe-inspiring sight: a majestic Grey Heron, standing tall and proud, catching a fish. I watched as it swallowed its catch, a true display of n...

Website - Blog With More Images On August 26, 2024, I had the pleasure of spending a truly magical day at Warnham Nature Reserve. There’s something incredibly refreshing about stepping into the natural beauty of the reserve, where each moment feels like a gift from nature itself. But nothing could have prepared me for the unforgettable experience of spotting and photographing a vibrant kingfisher in action. The sighting of this kingfisher was both unexpected and exhilarating! I was fortunate enough to capture not just one, but two incredible moments with this stunning bird. The first shot shows the kingfisher perched proudly on a branch, clutching its fresh catch of the day—a small fish gleaming in its beak. The second shot is a burst of pure action, freezing the moment as the kingfisher dives mid-flight, fully focused on its hunt. Watching this bird’s agility and focus was a beautiful reminder of the resilience and grace of wildlife. There’s something deeply humbling about witnessing ...

Website - Blog With More Images On August 26, 2024, I spent a truly inspiring day at Warnham Nature Reserve, a hidden gem for any nature and photography enthusiast. The reserve, with its diverse habitats and serene landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop for capturing some stunning wildlife moments that I’m thrilled to share! One of the highlights of the day was an unforgettable close-up shot of a Common Darter dragonfly. Perched delicately on a cluster of pink flowers, this little marvel stayed just long enough for me to capture every intricate detail. Thanks to my 600mm lens, I could capture not just its vibrant colors but also the delicate structure of its wings and body—a true moment of magic in nature photography. Another remarkable encounter was with a Southern Hawker dragonfly darting gracefully around the ponds. Its vibrant colors flashed in and out of view as it maneuvered around the water, creating a mesmerizing scene that almost felt like a dance. There’s something so capt...

Website - Blog With More Images On August 25, 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting the stunning Hayling Island Oyster Beds. Known for its serene views and abundant wildlife, this unique spot becomes especially captivating when the tide rises, drawing birds and other animals closer to shore for feeding and roosting. I arrived just in time to witness a beautiful display of nature’s magic and managed to capture a few unforgettable moments with my camera. As the high tide rolled in, the shallow waters attracted a variety of birds, each moving gracefully through the scene. Among them were Little Egrets, skillfully hunting in the shallows. Their snowy white feathers and elegant postures against the shimmering water created a picture-perfect sight, making me feel like I’d stepped into a living painting. Not long after, I spotted a group of Oystercatchers coming in to roost. Their distinctive black and white bodies and bright orange beaks stood out vividly against the backdrop of the waves, ma...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something magical about spending a day surrounded by nature, and my recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve was no exception. The reserve, always teeming with life, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of wildlife photography and peaceful observation. One of the highlights of my day was capturing a grey heron in action. I watched in awe as it skilfully flipped a fish in its beak—a fleeting moment that was as thrilling as it was beautiful. It’s not often that you get to witness such natural precision up close! As I continued exploring, I was treated to the sight of a kingfisher in all its electric blue glory. These birds are always a favourite of mine, their vibrant colour never failing to impress. There’s something almost otherworldly about seeing one dart across the water or perch silently, waiting for its next meal. But the kingfisher wasn’t the only star of the day. A delicate large white butterfly fluttered by, adding a gentle grace t...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something truly special about immersing oneself in nature, and I had the pleasure of experiencing just that during my recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve. On August 18, 2024, I spent a peaceful day wandering through this hidden gem, soaking up the sights, sounds, and serenity of the surroundings. This nature reserve, with its lush greenery, tranquil waters, and diverse wildlife, is a sanctuary that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. One of the highlights of my visit was the magical moment when I spotted the Willow Emerald Damselfly. These exquisite creatures, with their delicate wings and striking green colour, seem to dance against the backdrop of the lush vegetation. It’s always a joy to see these little gems up close—they blend so seamlessly with the greenery yet stand out in their own unique way, a reminder of nature’s incredible artistry. As I strolled along the paths, camera in hand, I was lucky en...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something so rejuvenating about spending time in nature, and my recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve on August 18, 2024, was no exception. Surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors, I stumbled upon a peaceful moment that truly took my breath away—a marsh frog basking on lily pads, perfectly framed by the calm reflections in the water. As I moved closer, careful not to disturb this serene scene, I was struck by how magical the moment felt. The sunlight glinted off the water, and the frog seemed to be completely at ease, enjoying the warmth and stillness. Watching this little creature in its natural habitat reminded me of nature’s quiet resilience and beauty, a scene that felt as if it was crafted for a painting. Warnham Local Nature Reserve is full of hidden gems like this, offering a chance to reconnect with the natural world. With each visit, I find myself appreciating more and more the delicate balance of life that plays out in these bea...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 17th of August 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a place where the beauty of nature always has something new and exciting to offer. As someone who loves observing wildlife, I was thrilled by what turned out to be a remarkable day of discoveries. Among the highlights? An up-close encounter with the fascinating Daubenton's Bat (Myotis daubentonii)! Often referred to as "water bats," Daubenton’s bats are known for their unique hunting technique. Skimming just above the surface of ponds, lakes, or rivers, they use their sharp senses to track down and snatch up insects. Watching this bat glide effortlessly over the water was a truly mesmerizing experience. I’ve always admired bats for their nocturnal elegance, but seeing one in action over the calm waters of Warnham was next level. This species, often seen at dusk, is a master of aerial acrobatics. It was magical to witness it dart and dive in pursuit of i...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 17th of August, 2024, I spent a peaceful and exhilarating day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. The beauty of nature was all around, and I was fortunate enough to capture some incredible moments through my camera lens. One of the first delights of the day was spotting a Common Blue Butterfly. Its delicate, iridescent wings were a joy to observe as it fluttered gracefully amidst the greenery. Shortly after, I caught sight of a White-tailed Bumblebee, busily buzzing around, reminding me of nature’s constant hum of life. As I wandered deeper into the reserve, I noticed a Gatekeeper Butterfly. It blended so perfectly with the foliage that it almost went unnoticed, but once spotted, its subtle beauty became apparent. In contrast, a Common Darter Dragonfly put on a striking display, its vibrant colours catching the sunlight as it darted around, truly living up to its name. One of the more striking...

Website - Blog With More Images This past weekend, I spent another wonderful day at Warnham Nature Reserve, a place that never fails to inspire me with its beauty and tranquility. It’s quickly becoming one of my favorite spots for wildlife photography, and on this particular visit, I was treated to an unforgettable encounter with a bird I’ve long admired – the kingfisher. As I wandered along the reserve’s pathways, my attention was drawn to a flash of blue and orange amongst the greenery. There, perched gracefully on a branch overhanging the water, was a kingfisher. Its vivid plumage stood out so vibrantly against the lush green backdrop, creating a picture-perfect moment of serenity. The bird sat patiently, surveying its surroundings, and I couldn’t resist the urge to capture this peaceful scene. There’s something incredibly captivating about watching a kingfisher in its natural habitat – the way it embodies both calmness and intensity, always on alert but appearing so at ease. Seeing...

Website - Blog With More Images On August 17th, 2024, I had the pleasure of spending a tranquil day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a hidden gem for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. As soon as I arrived, I was enveloped by the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve, with the gentle rustling of leaves, the call of distant birds, and the soft shimmer of the pond’s surface. What made this particular visit so special was the opportunity to witness and capture some truly stunning moments of Little Egrets in flight. Watching these elegant birds glide effortlessly across the pond, their pure white feathers contrasting with the lush green surroundings, was nothing short of magical. Each movement was a graceful display of balance and beauty, as they soared above the water, occasionally dipping low to hunt for fish. For a nature photographer like me, this was the perfect moment. The light was just right, casting soft reflections across the water’s surface, and the peacefulness of the sc...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something magical about starting the day surrounded by nature, and my visit to Ifield Mill Pond on the morning of August 17, 2024, was no exception. As the warm sun rose over the horizon, I found myself immersed in the peaceful serenity of the pond, with the gentle ripples of the water and the chorus of birds creating a perfect backdrop. One of the true highlights of the morning was the mesmerizing display put on by the House Martins. These tiny aerial acrobats glided effortlessly through the sky, performing graceful swoops and dives as they darted between trees and skimmed the water’s surface. Watching them in action was a humbling reminder of the beauty and skill of nature’s creatures. Armed with my camera, I managed to capture a few special moments of these remarkable birds in flight. Each shot felt like a small victory, freezing a moment of their swift and agile movements in time. As I reviewed the photos, I was struck by how peaceful and ins...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s nothing quite like spending a day immersed in nature, and Warnham Nature Reserve delivered another spectacular experience. With its tranquil lakes, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, it’s a haven for both seasoned photographers and casual nature enthusiasts alike. On my recent visit, I was lucky enough to capture some incredible moments that I’m excited to share with you. Chiffchaff – A Tiny but Mighty Songbird As I strolled through the wooded trails, I caught sight of a Chiffchaff flitting about in the trees. These small, energetic warblers are easy to miss, but if you stop and listen, their cheerful song fills the air. While it may be tiny, the Chiffchaff brings a lively presence to the canopy, reminding us of the hidden gems in the treetops. Coot – The Feisty Waterbird The lake was bustling with activity, and one of the regulars, the Coot, made sure to put on a show. These bold little birds may look unassuming at first glance, but they’re k...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 11th of August, I spent a wonderful day immersed in the beauty of Warnham Nature Reserve. The peaceful atmosphere and lush greenery always make for a great escape, but this visit was particularly special because I had the privilege of capturing one of nature's most vibrant birds in action—the kingfisher. As I wandered along the water's edge, camera in hand, I spotted a flash of brilliant blue and orange darting through the air. A kingfisher had landed gracefully on a post nearby. With its keen eyes scanning the water, this stunning bird stood still just long enough for me to snap a few perfect shots. Moments later, I was lucky enough to witness its elegant flight, managing to get some close-up images of the kingfisher in mid-air, its vivid feathers glowing in the sunlight. Capturing wildlife in such detail is always a thrill, but there's something particularly special about photographing a kingfisher. Its bold colors and swift, gracefu...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 11th of August 2024, I found myself immersed in the peaceful surroundings of Warnham Nature Reserve, a hidden gem for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature and wildlife. What began as a casual visit quickly turned into a remarkable experience when I stumbled upon a delightful scene that I couldn’t resist capturing with my camera. As I wandered along the edge of one of the reserve’s tranquil lakes, I noticed a Little Grebe gracefully gliding across the water. The timing couldn't have been more perfect—just as the afternoon sunlight softened into a warm, golden hue, casting a magical glow over the entire scene. The light was absolutely mesmerizing, reflecting off the water's surface and enveloping the Little Grebe in a halo of warmth. It seemed as though the bird was basking in the golden sunlight, enjoying the serenity just as much as I was. This peaceful moment reminded me of why I love nature photography so much. There’s something s...

Website - Blog With More Images There's something profoundly calming about spending a day outdoors with just a camera in hand, immersing yourself in the natural world. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Warnham Nature Reserve again, this time focusing on macro photography—capturing the often-overlooked details of the world beneath our feet. Warnham Nature Reserve is one of my favourite spots to explore, and this trip was no exception. With the gentle breeze and the peaceful surroundings, it felt like the perfect day to slow down and appreciate the smaller things in life. I spent hours combing through the foliage, looking for the tiny creatures that make up an essential, yet often unnoticed, part of our ecosystems. Here are a few of the fascinating finds from my day: Dock Bug While wandering through the greenery, I came across the Dock Bug (Coreus marginatus), a true bug species. Though small, it stood out with its distinctive brownish coloration and long antennae. Watching it...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something truly magical about being surrounded by nature, and once again, Warnham Nature Reserve did not disappoint. On my recent visit, I had the pleasure of spending the day amidst vibrant butterflies, camera in hand, capturing some of the most stunning shots of these delicate creatures. Butterflies have always fascinated me—their grace, the intricate patterns on their wings, and the way they flutter effortlessly through the air. Each species tells its own unique story, and I was fortunate enough to capture several remarkable ones during my time there. Highlights of the Day: 🌿 Brown Hairstreak One of the rarest and most elusive butterflies in the UK, the Brown Hairstreak was a real treat to spot. It’s not often you get a glimpse of this shy creature, let alone capture it on camera. Its delicate brown wings with those subtle orange streaks made it a standout moment of the day. 🌿 Comma Butterfly The jagged edges of the Comma Butterfly’s wings a...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something incredibly calming about spending time surrounded by nature, and my latest visit to Warnham Nature Reserve on August 10th, 2024, was no exception. As I wandered through the peaceful pathways, camera in hand, I was fortunate enough to come across a rare and enchanting creature: the Willow Emerald Damselfly. With their shimmering, metallic green bodies, these damselflies are truly a sight to behold. It's not every day you get to observe such delicate beauty up close. Perched gracefully on the reeds, they seemed to radiate a quiet elegance, their slender wings catching the sunlight in the most captivating way. The experience of photographing them in their natural habitat was both serene and exhilarating, offering a glimpse into the intricate wonders of the insect world. Warnham Nature Reserve never ceases to amaze me with its rich diversity of wildlife. Whether it’s the vivid colours of dragonflies skimming the water's surface or t...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something truly magical about spending a day immersed in nature, and my recent visit to Warnham Nature Reserve on the 10th of August 2024 was no exception. With every step I took, I felt a deeper connection to the beauty and tranquillity around me. But the highlight of the day came when I spotted a graceful Little Egret soaring effortlessly through the sky. The Little Egret, with its slender white body and striking wingspan, was a sight to behold. As it glided through the air, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Moments like these, where nature reveals its beauty so effortlessly, remind me why I love wildlife photography. There's something captivating about capturing a bird in mid-flight, especially one as elegant as the Little Egret. It's these fleeting moments that make the patience and time spent in nature so rewarding. As I raised my camera, I knew this was going to be a special series of shots. The egret flew with such grace, maki...