Magical creatures
AN APPRECIATION OF THE KING FISHER
The crescent moon was rising and the first stars visible against the dimming evening sky. I sat by the lake which reflected the trees and hills around me. It was one of those rare moments of peace and clarity which I could bask in forever. Just as my mind whispered “It doesn’t get much better than this”, a silent flash of electric blue darted across the water. A kingfisher!
I immediately wanted to run and tell someone “I saw a kingfisher! a kingfisher!”. However, I made a conscious decision to sit still and, as the wave of emotion subsided, I relaxed into the privilege of the moment. I reached for my binoculars and there he was (males’ beaks lack the orange markings that females have) – humbly perched on a low willow tree branch overhanging the lake – white, copper and iridescent shades of blue, sprinkled with fluorescent stars. I lose myself in the mesmerising blues of his feathers until he dissolves into the shadow of nightfall. Full of gratitude, I wandered away in a dreamy daze. This was a moment of real, natural magic.
Kingfishers are one of those native birds that we all get excited about. Perhaps because of how exotic their plumage seems. Or perhaps because encountering them effortlessly calls us to mindful awareness – a colourful spectacle that rekindles childlike wonder. I don’t know about you, but I’ve rarely seen a kingfisher when looking for one. Often, our
closest encounter with them is a far-away high-pitched call. Perched by clear waters, motionless, waiting for the ideal moment to dive in and catch their meal of fish and aquatic insects, these enchanting birds are great teachers of patience.
Devastatingly, their dependence on clean, clear waters means that the sight of this electric blue flash is increasingly rare in our country. Kingfishers now have ‘amber’ UK conservation status (second only to red in priority). These birds rely on territories along clean water courses with trees and low shrubs. Sadly, they’re vulnerable to hard winters (when freshwater freezes, it reduces their already dwindling habitat), the degradation of river banks, water pollution and ingesting more chemicals, which build up through their food chain.
Kingfishers’ vulnerability is heartbreakingly highlighted by one of their most beautiful characteristics: their shyness. Perhaps what I love the most about these birds is their humble elusiveness. Despite their stunning looks, they don’t flaunt it. Perhaps, then, it becomes our job to celebrate them, to give them the respect and care they deserve? If you spot one of these mysterious jewels, treasure the privilege of a shared moment – the kingfisher really is a rare gift of the natural world.
The Art of Mindful Birdwatching