Red Kite - A Different Flight Pose

Canon 1DX
f/4 500mm
f/5.6
1/2000
ISO 1250

This is another frame from my time with the Red Kites at a feeding station in Scotland. I liked the 'different' flight pose on this one.

Will

Hi Will, i'm with you, I like this dynamic flight pose you skillfully captured, WOW! The eyes are intense and glad we see both of them. Killer BG with loads of details and SH, top notch work Will. The fanned tail is amazing by the looks of the width of it, I noticed how it extends past the curled wing. Just curious about the feeding station Will, would you share a bit about it? Was this a day shoot for you or do you frequent often? What do they feed the kites? Also, are the migratory? Thanks, Ann

Hi Ann, thanks for that.. Red kites were extinct in Scotland, and during the 80's they reintroduced them. There are two farms which have been feeding these birds on a daily basis since they were reintroduced. They have a large table where they place lots of red meat, usually venison, same time every day. The Kites have obviously caught on to this as they float around in the area, then dive down onto the table and pick up the food. Photographers stand on a balcony which gives a great POV. The last time I was there over 40 birds appeared. This feeding frenzy last for nearly an hour. The feeding station is marshalled by members of the RSPB. I go there on a regular basis as it isn't too far from my hometown. They are non migratory, so they are there everyday, 365 days a year. Not a bad days photoshoot for £5.00.

Will

Thanks Will for the info, and so happy folks have worked to grow more Kites... Lucky you Will, what a fabulous way to spend a day everyday! As soon as I fuel up my jet I'll be over, hahaha...

Pretty neat pose here also like that green background. Nice and sharp.

Yeah the pose is great, but the eyes are the real winner here. Lack of shadows is also nice. Looks like a pretty sweet place to shoot.

Hi William. Ditto all the previous comments. This is a cracking shot! :eek3:Nothing like that here in Queensland (that I'm aware of)...I'm jealous!

Love the wicked pose, the eyes, and the two slivers of the tail that are visible. A winner for sure.

with love, artie

Thanks for that guys, much appreciated.

Will