Kestrel and young
Another from the good old distant film days. Taken in 1977 on Ecktachrome.
Transparency photographed on D7100 so image quality could be better. This kestrel was nesting in the clock bell tower of one of our small town Churches. I got permission to photograph it but there was a problem. It was nesting in a cavity behind one of the decorative arches high up in the spire. In the clock room. No problem but the climb up a vertical ladder was a bit hairy and the two half inch thick steel ropes which held the two clock weights came down a shaft right in front of the nest. The two weights were about 112 lbs each. The only solution was to wind the clock up to get the ropes and weights above the level of the nest.. I had to do this from the ground floor every time I had a photo session.with a big circular winding handle about a yard across. I spent many hours with the birds and they were not in the slightest bit bothered by me or the camera. I found out why the first time the clock bell struck and I was sitting about 4 foot in front of it. This happened every quarter of an hour ! I asked if I could disarm it but the vicar said no- because all the local folks would be late for work !!
Done with a wide angle on the Mamyia 645. Two metz 402 baffled flashes.
About a 30th sec as I recall with the flash controlling the expose and speed at f22 I think.
You can see the sheep in the green field 150 foot below through the arch window.!!!
This is a rare shot of the male. They don’t come to the nest very often- but prefer to call off the female or drop food in quickly and clear off. Got more as the chicks grew if anybody interested.
Thanks for looking and comments on last pic.
Cheers
JohnR
Your story is amazing, and the photograph as well, John. That you managed to capture all four chicks, dad and his catch is remarkable. The lighting and detail is spot on. You even got the sheep. Well done and here's a vote to see more of the chicks growing up.
Kestrel
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Well done mate
