After the excitement of the two Serins at the local RSPB site at Fen omega replica Drayton Lakes, further reports came in of a Slavonian Grebe on another part of the reserve. The only time that I have even seen one was a few years ago at Grafham Water with a couple of long range record shots - and I mean long range as it was in the middle of the water probably 200/250 metres away. Well I could just about tell it was a Slavonian Grebe but definitely not good enough for this website.

It had been reported on the south-east corner of Ferry Lagoon so I approached the reserve from Swavesey and then walked to the sited location but an hour of searching proved fruitless. I then drove to the main entrance to the reserve, running into an aquaintance who had been watching the bird for an hour or so but before I arrived. At least it was still around.

With nothing else of interest, I went back there after lunch, taking omega replica watches the odd image of drake Goldeneye on the way

I then met a birder who had just seen it in front of the viewing shelter - and sure enough, there it was although distant - showing well for a scope but not so well for a camera. I prepared for a long wait and set up in readiness - Canon 7DMK2, Canon 500 MK2 lens and Canon 2x mk3 converter. Before getting this latest kit, I would not have dreamed of using the 2x converter as the shots were too soft but the improved lenses and the 7D MK2s' ability to focus at F8, now make this set-up a practicality.

The bird gradually moved closer but no less than 50 metres or so but, even with heavyish cropping, I was pleased with the results, especially in the softer light of the later afternoon.

Even sufficient shutter speed for a diving shot

Well what a start to 2016. Decent images of Serin and Slavonian Grebe within a couple of weeks. Can this stroke of luck continue?

More images in the Recent Additions section of this website.