Paul Cross Photography

Website - Blog With More Images On the crisp morning of September 22, 2024, I had the immense pleasure of capturing one of nature’s most dazzling wonders—a kingfisher in all its radiant glory. Perched with the poise of a true showstopper, this tiny bird seemed to glow against the serene backdrop of Warnham Local Nature Reserve. Its brilliant hues of blue and orange shimmered in the sunlight, creating a visual feast for anyone fortunate enough to witness it. There’s something truly magical about kingfishers. They have an almost otherworldly ability to transform the stillness of nature into a vibrant canvas of colour and life. Every time I encounter one, I’m reminded of the beauty and tranquillity that the natural world offers us—if only we take the time to look. Warnham Local Nature Reserve has long been a sanctuary for both wildlife and the people who admire it. For photographers like me, it’s a treasure trove of surprises waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the soft ripple of water...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something magical about spending time in nature, and Warnham Local Nature Reserve never disappoints. On a crisp September morning, I found myself once again wandering its serene paths, camera in hand, eager to see what surprises awaited me. From the moment I arrived, the reserve was alive with activity. The soft rustle of leaves and the distant calls of birds created a symphony that felt like nature’s own welcome. Highlights of the Day As I explored, I encountered a variety of wildlife, each moment more enchanting than the last: A Blue Tit, flitting gracefully between branches, its tiny frame a blur of energy and colour. A Chiffchaff, pausing briefly, almost as if it had stopped just for a quick photoshoot. A Cormorant, standing tall by the water’s edge, drying its wings with an elegance that seemed almost regal. A Gadwall pair, gliding effortlessly across the lake, their reflections shimmering in the morning light. A Great Spotted Woodpecker, it...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something magical about a day spent immersed in nature, and my visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve on 21st September 2024 was no exception. Among the many wonders this reserve offers, one moment stood out—a close encounter with a Kingfisher. With its vibrant plumage and agile movements, the Kingfisher truly stole the show. I was lucky enough to capture this incredible bird in a few special moments: perched gracefully on a branch, its intricate feathers shimmering in the sunlight, and in flight, darting through the reeds with unmatched elegance. Watching this little burst of colour come alive in front of my lens was pure joy. Warnham is a treasure trove for any wildlife photographer, offering countless opportunities to observe and document nature’s finest. The Kingfisher, though, has a way of stealing hearts with its striking appearance and lively demeanour. Check out the photos from this memorable day to see the Kingfisher’s beauty up close—eve...

Website - Blog With More Images On September 21, 2024, I had the pleasure of spending an inspiring day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. The reserve, with its peaceful ambiance and rich biodiversity, provided the perfect backdrop for a wildlife photography adventure. From the vibrant hues of tiny songbirds to the elegance of dragonflies in flight, every moment felt like a masterpiece waiting to be captured. The day’s highlights included an adorable Blue Tit and a striking Bullfinch perched gracefully amidst the greenery. I also had the fortune of spotting the elusive Great Spotted Woodpecker, its vivid plumage standing out as it darted through the trees. On the water, the Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe put on a serene display of aquatic beauty, while a determined Cormorant gave an impressive performance diving for fish. Walking further, a proud pheasant strutted through the undergrowth, adding a touch of countryside charm to the day. In the air, the Common Darter and Migrant Hawke...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 21st of September 2024, I spent a truly delightful day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. Armed with my camera, I ventured into the serene surroundings, eager to capture the beauty of autumn’s embrace. It didn’t take long for nature to put on a show! One of the highlights of the day was spotting a charming Nuthatch perched gracefully on branches adorned with vibrant fungi. It felt like stumbling upon nature’s very own art gallery—every branch a masterpiece, every mushroom a brushstroke. The Nuthatch itself was a joy to watch, skillfully navigating the branches with its characteristic agility, completely at home in this woodland haven. Autumn has a magical way of transforming landscapes, doesn’t it? The golden hues, the crisp air, and the quiet hum of life all come together to create a symphony that’s both calming and invigorating. Moments like these remind me why I love wildlife photography—it's about freezing these fleeting wonders to share and...

Website - Blog With More Images There's something magical about spending a day immersed in nature, surrounded by the sights and sounds of wildlife. On September 15, 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Elmley Nature Reserve, a haven for birdlife and a dream location for wildlife photographers like myself. The day was filled with unforgettable moments, each species adding its own charm to the vibrant landscape. I was fortunate enough to capture the elusive Common Snipe, its camouflaged plumage blending seamlessly with the marshland. In contrast, the Grey Heron stood tall and elegant, a picture of grace as it waded through the water. A real highlight was witnessing the Marsh Harrier, its powerful flight commanding attention as it soared across the sky. My camera also caught the beauty of a Hobby, showcasing its agility in mid-air, and the striking presence of a Little Egret, its pristine white feathers glowing in the sunlight. Among the rarer sights was a Pectoral Sandpiper, a deligh...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 15th of September 2024, I had the pleasure of spending a tranquil day at Elmley Nature Reserve, one of my favourite spots for wildlife photography. The reserve, with its wide-open skies and rich biodiversity, always offers something new, and this visit was no exception. Among the many sights, the highlight of my day was spotting and photographing a beautiful ringed plover. These small, energetic shorebirds are a delight to observe. They’re constantly on the move, darting across the mudflats with their quick steps, and their delicate plumage and striking markings make them a joy to capture on camera. This particular plover allowed me a close view of its intricate details—the striking black and white bands around its head, the soft brown feathers of its back, and its purposeful, rapid movements as it foraged. Moments like these remind me why I love wildlife photography; it’s about appreciating the small wonders of nature that often go unnoticed. Eve...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something truly refreshing about spending a day immersed in nature, and Warnham Local Nature Reserve never disappoints. On my latest visit, I was lucky enough to capture some stunning wildlife moments, and I’m excited to share the experience with you all. As soon as I arrived, the sights and sounds of the reserve drew me in. From the whispering trees to the calls of various birds, Warnham has a way of inviting you into its natural world. My camera was ready, and I hoped to see some of the resident birds that call this place home. Capturing the Reserve’s Resident Birds One of the highlights of my visit was spotting a lively Blue Tit flitting around the trees. With its vibrant blue and yellow feathers, it added a splash of color to the green surroundings. Next came the striking Great Spotted Woodpecker – a true beauty with its bold black, white, and red plumage. Watching it peck and move gracefully along the tree trunks was mesmerizing. The reflect...

Website - Blog With More Images On September 14, 2024, I spent a peaceful day at the Warnham Local Nature Reserve, camera in hand, ready to capture some of the intricate beauty of this serene environment. My afternoon was centered around the reflection pool, a spot that seemed almost magical in its simplicity. Rather than the typical mosaic of fallen autumn leaves, I was struck by the leaf stalks that delicately poked through the water’s surface. These slender stalks created gentle, intricate shapes that seemed almost surreal, standing still in the soft, late-summer light. As I lingered by the pool, I noticed tiny insects drifting across the water, adding subtle movement and an extra touch of life to the scene. Their presence felt like nature’s smallest reminder of the interconnectedness within the ecosystem. Each moment spent there felt meditative, and I found myself appreciating not just the larger beauty of the reserve but also these tiny, often-overlooked details. The Warnham Reser...

Website - Blog With More Images On the 14th of September, I spent a lovely, tranquil day exploring the beautiful Warnham Local Nature Reserve. The weather was calm, and the entire place seemed to hum with the subtle, soothing rhythms of nature. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. As I wandered along the trails, I was lucky enough to spot some Nuthatches—a small but delightful surprise! These charming little birds quickly became the highlight of my day. Known for their energetic behavior and endearing hops along the branches, Nuthatches bring a special kind of joy to any nature walk. Watching them move so playfully, with their feathers fluffed up, I felt a new sense of admiration for the beauty that often goes unnoticed. With my camera in hand, I captured some shots that I hope do them justice. There’s something magical about nature photography; it allows you to hold onto a moment and appreciate it more deeply each time you look back. I’...

Website - Blog With More Images On September 8, 2024, I had the pleasure of spending a day at Warnham Local Nature Reserve—a truly beautiful retreat into nature that left me feeling refreshed and inspired. Located in a lush landscape, the reserve is a sanctuary for local wildlife, creating a perfect spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. As I wandered along the trails, the reserve was alive with activity. I was thrilled to capture some fantastic shots of the diverse birdlife, including Blue Tits, Goldfinches, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Great Tits, and the ever-charming Long-Tailed Tits. Watching these birds flit through the trees and listening to their calls was a gentle reminder of nature's magic and the quiet beauty that often goes unnoticed in our busy lives. Warnham offered more than just visual beauty—it was a true escape from the daily hustle, a chance to slow down and connect with the world around me. Surrounded by tall trees and vibrant greenery, I felt an overwhelm...

Website - Blog With More Images On the afternoon of September 8, 2024, I spent a lovely day exploring Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a place that always offers something special. With camera in hand and the warm late-afternoon sun as my companion, I wandered along the serene paths, soaking up the beauty around me. As I ventured further into the reserve, I spotted a familiar yet enchanting visitor—the robin. This little bird is often overlooked as it's such a common sight, but in that soft, golden light, it seemed to have an almost magical presence. The robin perched gracefully, framed by the natural glow of the setting sun, and I couldn’t resist capturing that moment. It’s these quiet encounters that remind me how nature never ceases to amaze. No matter how many times I see a robin, each experience feels fresh and inspiring. Being out there, surrounded by the simple beauty of the reserve, made me feel incredibly grateful for these small but profound moments. I hope the photos I capt...

Website - Blog With More Images There's something magical about spending time in nature, immersing oneself in the sights and sounds of the wild. On September 8, 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a peaceful haven that never fails to impress. As I wandered through the tranquil paths, camera in hand, I stumbled upon a delightful surprise—a Goldcrest, one of the tiniest and most energetic birds in the UK. If you’re not familiar with the Goldcrest, it’s a marvel in the bird-watching world. With its distinctive golden crown and vibrant energy, spotting one is always a treat! This particular Goldcrest seemed to appear out of nowhere, fluttering gracefully through the trees. It moved so quickly, darting from branch to branch, that capturing the moment was a fun challenge. I managed to snap a few photos just before it disappeared back into the canopy, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the brief but memorable encounter. For those who love wildlif...

    Website - Blog With More Images On September 8, 2024, I spent a peaceful afternoon at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, hoping for some time in nature and maybe a little birdwatching by the reflection pool. I imagined catching a glimpse of birds swooping down for a drink, their wings lightly touching the water. But, as it often goes in nature, things didn’t turn out as planned—and that ended up being a gift in itself. The birds didn’t appear, but something else did. As I sat quietly by the pool, watching the still water mirror the world around me, clouds began to gather, and eventually, the rain came. I expected the rain to cut my visit short, but instead, it brought its own beauty. I watched the ripples on the water’s surface as raindrops landed, each drop creating small circles that danced in the pool. Then, I noticed a tiny bubble floating on the water, perfectly reflecting the trees surrounding the pool. Capturing that moment—just a single bubble reflecting the world in a ...

Website - Blog With More Images There’s something magical about spending a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature’s beauty, and my recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve on September 8th, 2024, was no exception. I had gone with the simple hope of spotting some feathered visitors, as I settled by the reflection pool, camera in hand, ready to capture any moments they offered. The reflection pool, with its still waters mirroring the sky and the surrounding trees, has always been a haven for birds. I envisioned a peaceful scene where birds would swoop down to quench their thirst. But as the minutes passed, no birds appeared. While some might consider this a disappointment, nature has a way of surprising you when you least expect it. Just as I was beginning to think my feathered friends might not show up, I noticed movement along the water’s edge. To my amazement, a female Common Darter dragonfly had arrived and began laying her eggs on the water's surface. Watching her delicate mov...

Website - Blog With More Images On September 1, 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Hayling Island Oyster Beds, a true gem for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the tranquility of the landscape, with its sprawling marshlands, saltwater beds, and the fresh scent of the coast in the air. This place was alive with a vibrant array of birdlife, each species bringing a unique charm to the scene. As I wandered along the paths, camera in hand, I found myself immersed in the beauty of the wildlife around me. Some incredible moments unfolded, and I was lucky enough to capture a few shots that I'd love to share with you: Common Redshanks in Flight There’s something magical about watching birds move together as one. I spotted a flock of Common Redshanks taking to the sky, their synchronized movements a stunning sight to behold. They painted the sky with graceful formations, reminding me of nature’s subtle coordination and beauty. The Ele...