Paul Cross Photography

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 26th of May 2025, I had one of those memorable days at Warnham Local Nature Reserve where everything seemed to come alive. The reserve is always full of surprises, but this visit was particularly special for the variety of wildlife I managed to capture in action. From birds in full flight to fleeting moments along the water’s edge, every encounter felt like a reminder of why I love wildlife photography. Highlights of the Day Greylag Goose in Full Flight There’s something incredibly powerful about watching a Greylag Goose take to the air. The wingspan, the sheer energy, and the sound of beating wings made this a spectacular sight to photograph. Little Grebe Airborne A rare moment! Little Grebes are usually seen darting under the water, so catching one in mid-air was a highlight of the day. It’s not something I’ve often witnessed, let alone managed to capture with the camera. Mallard Duck in Graceful Flight The Mallard may...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 26th of May 2025, I had the privilege of photographing a Common Tern in flight at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. These elegant birds are always a delight to watch, but catching one so close, gliding effortlessly over the water, made the experience even more memorable. Common Terns are known for their graceful flight and sharp hunting skills. With their slender wings and forked tails, they seem to hover above the surface of the water before diving with precision to catch fish. At Warnham, the conditions were perfect for observing this behaviour — the tern skimmed across the water, scanning below with intense focus. From a photography perspective, capturing birds in flight is always a challenge. The speed and unpredictability of their movements mean you have to anticipate the moment, track smoothly, and ensure your focus locks at just the right time. Watching the tern glide with such ease reminded me why I love bird photograph...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 26th of May 2025, during a visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve, I was treated to a truly special moment — a Grey Heron gliding effortlessly across the reserve before landing with striking grace. Herons have always fascinated me. Their long wings and elegant posture make them one of the most captivating birds to observe in motion. On this particular day, I was fortunate enough to capture two distinct moments: the heron soaring through the air with its wings stretched wide, and the precise instant it touched down on a post. Both images tell a different story. The flight shot highlights the sheer power and span of the bird’s wings, while the landing image reflects its balance and poise. For me, these moments embody the dual nature of herons — strength in flight and serenity when still. Warnham continues to be a wonderful place for wildlife encounters, and experiences like this remind me why it’s such a rewarding location for...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 26th of May 2025, I had the pleasure of photographing a Common Tern at Warnham Local Nature Reserve — and it wasn’t just any sighting. This elegant bird had just secured a sizeable fish, perfectly showcasing its incredible hunting skills. Common Terns are expert fishers, known for their sharp dives and precise timing. Watching this one swoop down, strike the water, and emerge with such a large catch was a reminder of just how remarkable these birds truly are. The speed, accuracy, and grace of their movements are a real spectacle, especially when seen up close through the lens. Moments like this are why I love spending time at Warnham. The reserve is not only a haven for wildlife but also a place where everyday encounters can quickly turn into unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s the flash of a Kingfisher, the chorus of warblers in spring, or in this case, a tern showing off its fishing prowess, there’s always something s...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On a visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve on 25th May 2025, I had the privilege of witnessing a truly special moment — a pair of Broad-bodied Chasers (Libellula depressa), male and female, flying in tandem in the unmistakable “mating wheel” formation. It was one of those rare, fleeting scenes that make you pause in awe, especially when you're lucky enough to have your camera ready. The male, with his striking powder-blue abdomen, was later seen resting on nearby vegetation, giving me a perfect opportunity to capture a few clear, detailed shots. Dragonflies are notoriously fast and unpredictable, so moments like this are gold for a wildlife photographer. The light was just right, and I managed to get close enough without disturbing them — the kind of balance every macro or telephoto enthusiast hopes for. This experience was yet another reminder of how much goes on around us when we take the time to slow down and look a little clos...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 25th of May, I witnessed one of those unexpected and thrilling moments that remind you just how dynamic nature can be — especially at Warnham Local Nature Reserve. While quietly observing the water, my attention was drawn to a sudden burst of activity near a pair of Great Crested Grebes with chicks. A Coot, seemingly unaware (or perhaps unbothered), drifted too close to the grebe family. What followed was a dramatic display of parental instinct. The grebe parents, fiercely protective of their young, reacted immediately — puffing up, calling out, and making it very clear that the intruder was not welcome. These kinds of territorial displays are not uncommon during the breeding season, but to see it unfold so clearly — and to be in the right place at the right time to photograph it — was a real privilege. This moment reminded me again why I keep coming back to Warnham. With patience and a bit of luck, there's always something...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On a beautiful spring morning, I visited one of my favourite local spots for wildlife photography – Warnham Local Nature Reserve. The reserve never fails to deliver, and 24th May was no exception. Within just a few hours, I was treated to a wonderful display of bird activity, both on the water and in the air. One of the highlights was witnessing an Aylesbury Duck in flight, its white feathers catching the light as it soared gracefully over the water. These ducks are usually more known for waddling near ponds, so seeing one take to the sky with such elegance was a rare and memorable moment. Equally striking was a Great Crested Grebe in flight. These birds are typically admired for their elaborate courtship displays and sleek swimming posture, so capturing one mid-flight felt like a special reward. There's something about the motion and precision of grebes in the air that always leaves me in awe. I also spent time observing a pair o...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images During a recent visit to Warnham Local Nature Reserve, I was lucky enough to witness something you don’t see every day — coots in full flight. These birds are usually more comfortable skimming across the water or hiding among reeds, so catching them airborne was a real treat. It’s moments like these that remind me why I keep coming back to the same spots with my camera. Nature doesn’t always follow a script — and if you’re patient, it often rewards you with something unexpected. Photographing birds in flight is always a challenge, especially with subjects as fast and unpredictable as coots. Their takeoff is sudden and powerful, and capturing that motion mid-air really tests your timing and focus. But when everything comes together — light, behaviour, background — the results are incredibly rewarding. I’ve shared a few of the shots from that day — feel free to let me know which one is your favourite! Tags: #Coots #BirdInFlight #War...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images 📍 Warnham Local Nature Reserve – 24/05/2025 There’s always something fascinating to witness at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, but this particular visit on the 24th of May gave me a scene that was equal parts elegant and amusing. Common Terns were putting on a stunning aerial display — gliding effortlessly over the water with that classic, streamlined grace they’re known for. It was one of those peaceful moments where everything in nature seems perfectly choreographed. Well… almost everything. Among the squadron of smooth flyers, one tern decided to break the rhythm — mid-meal. With a fish halfway down its throat, it launched itself back into the air as if it had somewhere urgent to be. No time for chewing, no pause for swallowing — just wings up and off it went, fish still flapping! It’s moments like this that remind me why I love wildlife photography. You never quite know what you’ll capture — one minute it’s serenity, the next i...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images Warnham Local Nature Reserve never fails to deliver, and my visit on 18th May 2025 was no exception. With the weather on my side and wildlife active all around, it turned into one of those truly rewarding days behind the lens. The action started early with some classic coot drama — a scene that’s become almost expected at Warnham, but never any less intense. I watched as several coots chased and clashed across the water in a flurry of splashes and feathers. It’s always a spectacle seeing just how territorial these birds can be, and capturing that energy in photographs is always exciting. Later in the day, I was treated to a more tender moment: a great crested grebe feeding its chicks. These elegant birds are a joy to photograph, and seeing one care for its young was a special highlight. I was even lucky enough to snap a shot of one in flight — not an easy task given how swiftly they move across the water. As if that wasn’t enough,...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 18th of May 2025, I enjoyed one of those unforgettable days at Warnham Local Nature Reserve that reminds me exactly why I love wildlife photography. As I made my way around the reserve, the calm was broken by the elegant flight of a Common Tern skimming across the water’s surface. These birds are always a joy to see, but this one put on a real show. It dipped into the water with a quick splash, taking a refreshing bath mid-flight, then soared effortlessly back into the air. What made the moment even more special was watching it dive and emerge with a fish in its beak—a perfect example of nature’s precision and grace. Capturing that split-second in a photo was incredibly rewarding. These are the moments I wait patiently for, and when they come together like this, it makes all the hours spent in the field completely worth it. The Common Tern is such an elegant bird, both in movement and appearance, and seeing it in action lik...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On a beautifully sunny day in mid-May, I spent some rewarding hours at Warnham Local Nature Reserve, a favourite spot of mine for observing UK wildlife in action. The dragonfly activity was in full swing, with perfect conditions for photography – warm light, calm waters, and plenty of aerial movement. Among the many insects darting through the reeds and around the ponds, I was particularly pleased to photograph two striking species: the Broad-bodied Chaser and the Four-spotted Chaser. These dragonflies are always a treat to witness, not just for their stunning colours and detailed markings, but also for their fascinating, agile flight patterns. Seeing these powerful insects up close never gets old. Their wings catch the sunlight in just the right way, and their bold presence by the water's edge makes them ideal subjects for macro and telephoto photography alike. I’ve shared a selection of images from the day – feel free to take a ...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images There’s nothing quite like a day immersed in nature, and my recent visit to Elmley Nature Reserve on 17th May 2025 was a reminder of why I love wildlife photography so much. The reserve was alive with activity — from birds in flight to insects basking in the spring sun — offering endless opportunities to observe and capture the natural world in action. One of the first highlights of the day was spotting a vibrant male chaffinch, its colourful plumage catching the morning light beautifully. Not long after, a striking male common reed bunting appeared among the reeds, posing just long enough for a few quick shots. The skies didn’t disappoint either — I managed to photograph a male gadwall and a little egret, both in flight, showcasing their grace and agility against the wide open landscape. On the ground, I was delighted to encounter an oystercatcher, a bird I always enjoy watching, with its bold colours and energetic movements. But...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On 17th May 2025, I spent an unforgettable day at Elmley Nature Reserve, one of my favourite spots for wildlife photography. As always, Elmley delivered an incredible mix of species, peaceful landscapes, and those special moments that remind me why I love nature photography so much. One of the highlights of the day was watching a Black-Headed Gull gliding effortlessly above the still waters. There’s something so serene about the way they move—silent, controlled, and graceful—catching the light just right with every wingbeat. Not long after, I was treated to the sight of a male Black-Tailed Godwit in full breeding plumage. The rich chestnut tones and striking markings were absolutely stunning, and he stood out beautifully against the wetland backdrop. It’s always a privilege to see these birds in their seasonal colours, and it made for some of my favourite images of the day. I also had a close encounter with a Pied Avocet, wading e...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images My recent visit to Elmley Nature Reserve was nothing short of spectacular. On 17th May, I spent the day immersed in the expansive landscapes and vibrant birdlife that make this reserve such a special place for wildlife photographers and nature lovers alike. One of the real highlights of the day was encountering a Common Redshank—a beautifully elegant wader with striking plumage and a wonderfully expressive presence. I was lucky enough to photograph it both in flight and standing still among the tall grasses. Each moment revealed a different side of this bird’s character: the poised calm as it stood still, blending into the grassy habitat, and the grace and energy it showed as it took to the air. The Redshank is always a joy to observe. There's something about their alert posture and delicate movements that brings a scene to life, especially in such a wide, open space as Elmley. The reserve never fails to deliver when it comes to i...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images Warnham Nature Reserve has always been one of my favourite spots for wildlife photography, and my visit on the 10th of May certainly didn’t disappoint. The variety of birdlife on display was incredible, and I was fortunate enough to witness and capture several special moments throughout the morning. One of the standout highlights was a Green Woodpecker in flight, soaring gracefully across the lake. It’s not often you get such a clear view of one mid-air — a rare and rewarding moment. I also spotted a Grey Heron, both standing with its usual poise and later gliding across the water. These birds always seem to exude calm confidence, and they make for such striking photographic subjects. The morning light was perfect for photographing a Little Egret, backlit by the sun with its wings glowing softly as it moved through the reeds. It was a truly elegant scene that perfectly captured the delicate beauty of this bird. A Male Mallard took...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On my latest visit to Warnham Nature Reserve, I was treated to a classic display of Coot behaviour — full of attitude, noise, and non-stop action! These feisty little birds never fail to entertain, and this particular morning was no exception. As I wandered along the paths with my camera in hand, a commotion on the water quickly caught my attention. Two Coots were locked in a territorial chase, skimming across the surface with furious energy, wings flapping and feet slapping the water like they were in a high-speed race. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love wildlife photography — the unpredictability, the drama, and the humour nature has to offer. Coots might not be the rarest or most colourful birds you'll see, but their personalities make up for it. Whether they’re squabbling over space, building nests from anything they can find, or simply showing off, they always put on a show worth capturing. I've included a few ...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the morning of May 10th, 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a few peaceful hours at one of my favourite places — Warnham Nature Reserve. The light was soft, the air was still, and wildlife activity was already stirring across the water. As I was scanning the lake, I spotted a Common Tern soaring above. These birds are always a joy to watch — slender, agile, and incredibly graceful in flight. Suddenly, it plunged with astonishing speed and pinpoint accuracy, disappearing into the water for just a moment before re-emerging triumphantly — a small fish firmly gripped by the dorsal fin in its sharp beak. Moments like these remind me just how powerful nature photography can be. Freezing that split-second of action — the splash, the catch, the flight — is never guaranteed, which makes capturing it feel all the more special. This particular frame is one I’m proud of, not just for the timing, but because it captures the sheer elegance...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On May 10th, 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a fantastic session at Warnham Nature Reserve—a place that never fails to deliver something special for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. This time, it was the Common Terns that stole the spotlight. They were out in full force, gliding effortlessly over the water, diving with precision, and putting on a real aerial show. Their acrobatic displays were nothing short of mesmerising—twisting and turning mid-air with such grace, you'd be forgiven for thinking they were choreographed. These elegant flyers are always a joy to photograph, but catching them mid-flight takes a mix of patience, timing, and a bit of luck. I spent a good portion of the day tracking their movements, trying to capture the perfect moment where wings, light, and motion all align. I've included some of my favourite shots from the day below, and I'd love to hear what you think. Do you have a favourite? Le...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images There’s nothing quite like a sunny spring morning at Warnham Nature Reserve, and the 10th of May turned out to be one of those perfect days for wildlife photography. The air was warm, the skies were clear, and the dragonflies were out in full force — in particular, the spectacular Broad-bodied Chasers. These striking dragonflies are always a highlight of the season for me. With their vivid blue abdomens and wide, glistening wings, they catch the light beautifully and make for truly photogenic subjects. On this visit, they were especially active — basking on perches, darting through the reeds, and engaging in brief, acrobatic chases. It was a real spectacle and a joy to witness up close. Photographing them in motion can be a challenge, but incredibly rewarding when it all comes together. Their speed and agility in flight never cease to amaze me, and I spent a good while simply observing before lifting the camera. Below are a few im...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images Farlington Marshes never disappoints, and my visit on the 4th of May 2025 was no exception. With spring in full swing, the reserve was alive with activity, and I was fortunate to witness a remarkable variety of birdlife throughout the day. One of the standout moments was watching a black-tailed godwit foraging in the shallows—its deliberate movements and striking plumage were a joy to observe. Nearby, a common whitethroat perched in the hedgerow, singing its heart out, a true sign that the breeding season is in full effect. The diversity didn’t stop there. I spotted common linnets flitting between low bushes, along with reed buntings making their presence known with bursts of song. Tucked away in the undergrowth, a hedge accentor (dunnock) gave me a brief but rewarding glimpse. Out on the water, gadwall and shelducks were busy feeding and flying. A group of shelducks even gave an elegant fly-past in perfect formation—a lovely mome...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images I spent a fantastic day at the Hayling Island Oyster Beds on the 3rd of May, and as always, the site delivered an abundance of wildlife activity. The nesting areas were full of life, especially the ever-busy Black-headed Gulls. I watched them tirelessly gather seaweed for their nests, and I was lucky enough to capture a few in flight — always a satisfying challenge! Overhead, a Common Raven soared past, its deep wingbeats and distinctive silhouette adding a touch of drama to the skies. It’s always a treat to see one of these impressive birds gliding above the coast. On the ground, I came across a striking Green-Veined White butterfly — a delicate and often overlooked species that added a splash of colour to the shoreline. Later in the day, I managed to photograph an Oystercatcher in flight, skimming just above the water. That moment perfectly captured the energy of the coast. Hayling Island never disappoints — there’s always somet...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images I recently enjoyed a fantastic day out at the Hayling Island Oyster Beds—a location that never disappoints when it comes to birdlife. This coastal spot is not only rich in natural beauty but also a haven for a variety of seabirds, making it an ideal destination for any wildlife photographer. On this visit, I focused my attention on the Common Terns, which were present in great numbers. Watching these elegant birds in flight was a real treat. Their agility and precision as they dived for fish was mesmerizing—every movement seemed calculated, yet effortless. The way they skimmed the surface of the water and hovered momentarily before plunging in for a catch was truly a sight to behold. I spent several hours observing and photographing them, trying to capture both their dynamic motion and delicate features. These birds are not just a challenge to photograph—they’re also a joy to watch, constantly in motion and full of character. Belo...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 3rd of May 2025, I spent a few peaceful hours exploring the Hayling Island Oyster Beds—a fantastic spot on the south coast for spring birdwatching. The area was alive with bird song, and I was lucky enough to photograph one of my favourite seasonal visitors: the Common Whitethroat. These small, energetic warblers are a real treat to observe. Full of life and constantly on the move, the Common Whitethroat rarely stays still for long. I watched as this particular bird flitted through the low scrub, occasionally pausing to sing from the tops of the bushes. Their scratchy, melodic song is a sure sign that spring has truly arrived. Photographing such an active bird definitely tested my reflexes, but it was worth every moment. Capturing the delicate details of its plumage and the lively expression in its eyes was incredibly rewarding. Encounters like this are exactly why I love wildlife photography—there’s nothing quite like the ...

     Link - Website Blog With More Images On the 3rd of May 2025, I had the privilege of witnessing something truly special during a visit to the Hayling Island Oyster Beds on the south coast of the UK. Among the calls of waders and the gentle sound of waves, a pair of Common Terns performed an aerial ballet that captured both my attention and my lens. These two elegant birds were engaged in a courtship flight — a ritual as beautiful as it is vital. Twisting and turning effortlessly in mid-air, they mirrored each other's movements with an almost choreographed grace. Their sharp, high-pitched calls echoed over the water as they danced together against the wind, strengthening their pair bond in preparation for the breeding season. Moments like these are why I carry my camera wherever I go. Photographing wildlife isn’t just about getting a sharp image; it’s about telling a story — capturing behaviour, emotion, and fleeting glimpses of nature's rhythms that many may never get...