The Belted Kingfisher might be common, but this is only one of two that I've seen and photographed in the past. The first was in Virginia earlier this year and this one happened in September 2025.
The Kingfisher is one of the larger landbirds. It plunge-dives for fish from exposed branches. It occasionally raised its crest. This adult male was very difficult to photograph because it was very skittish. It was singing as it flew around a large body of inland water. Even though I was in single shot mode and hand-held, I was fortunate to be able to capture the Kingfisher just as it left the branch for its plunge-dive into the water. The photographic location was in the Wooded Island, which features several islets, including Turtle Island that was originally created by Frederick Law Olmsted, for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition.
Well caught on the action. I suspect you were anticipating the dive, and probably had to take several before you got the right timing. Either way, it is super! The background is well handled too! Posted: 10/09/2025 15:33:34
Leslie Larson
Oh dear. The idea was great, the result didn't quite succeed. They are devilishly hard to catch in the act. You made a valiant attempt. Posted: 10/09/2025 22:07:13
Tom Buckard
Ted, very difficult, near impossible bird to shoot. Good job at catching anything at all. They are so fast and extremely spooky. Very good background. Great try Ted. Possibly if your speed was a little faster you could have stoped him but still a good grab shot. Posted: 10/11/2025 13:20:04
Jim Overfield
Ted, I've tried a dozen times over the past two years to catch a king fisher, in any position, and have always been disappointed with my shots. You have done well to capture this one in flight diving for its meal. I like the mix of the soft green and brown colored foliage for the background. Leaping from the branch adds to the story nicely. Really great effort Ted, better than I have ever succeeded at. Posted: 10/12/2025 21:07:45
Ted Evans
Thank you all for your comments and suggestions. The small birds are a prize well worth the attempt and the success is often fleeting.
The bigger birds are easier to fill the frame. The super telephoto lenses however introduce pixelation and noise when resizing the small birds from increased distances and higher shutter speeds.
I appreciate the sharing of wisdom and knowledge within PSADD 21. Posted: 10/20/2025 16:32:43
Marilyn Ross
Agree with all the comments. I never actually seen a King Fisher. Good job in capturing it. Posted: 10/25/2025 13:00:59
