Join me on my adventure of photographing Red Kite in Scotland. As a Lancashire lad who spends his weekdays tangled in the web of IT and full-stack web design, my weekends are reserved for something far more exhilarating – wildlife photography.

This passion recently whisked me away on my first adult adventure to Scotland, specifically to the Dumfries and Galloway area, in pursuit of a bird I’d never had the privilege of photographing before: the majestic Red Kite.

The Journey Begins

Nestled in a cozy AirBnb lodge in Carsethorn, right on the whispering coast, my anticipation was as high as the Scottish cliffs. The lodge was more than just a place to stay; it was our gateway to the wild.

On our second day, armed with excitement and my trusty Nikon z50, we set out to Bellymack Hill Farm, a name synonymous with Red Kite feeding stations and, as I hoped, photographic gold.

First Glimpse

The drive to the farm was scenic, to say the least, but it was a fleeting shadow over Dalbeattie that took my breath away – my very first Red Kite.

The sighting was brief, yet the image of that magnificent bird gliding through the air was etched in my mind. It wasn’t long before we spotted another, this time perched in a field, its grace and beauty undeniable.

Red Kite Feeding Frenzy

Our timing couldn’t have been better. Arriving an hour before feeding time, we were greeted by the sight of numerous Red Kites circling above, their cries filling the air with a wild symphony.

With a cup of tea in hand, courtesy of the lovely folks at Bellymack, we made our way to the viewing area, where the real show was about to begin.

Capturing the Moment

The weather was overcast, casting a soft, diffused light over the landscape – not ideal for photography, but beautiful in its own right. I had to adapt quickly. With my Sigma 150-600c lens at the ready,

I set the aperture wide open and dialed in a fast shutter speed of over 1/3200 to freeze the action. Auto ISO took care of the rest, allowing me to focus on the task at hand: capturing the kites in all their glory.

Tracking these agile birds was a challenge. They swooped and dived with such speed and grace that following them through the lens was nearly impossible.

So, I adopted a different approach – setting a focus point and waiting for the birds to fly into it. This method proved successful, allowing me to capture the essence of their flight without losing my sanity.

Switching Gears

As the day wore on, and my Sigma lens began to weigh heavily in my hands, I made the switch to a Nikkor 55-200mm.

This lighter lens gave me the flexibility I needed to continue shooting, capturing the kites as they danced in the air and rested in groups along the nearby treeline.

The Red Kite: A Symbol of Conservation Success

The Red Kite, with its striking red plumage and distinctive forked tail, is more than just a subject for photographers; it’s a symbol of conservation success in the UK.

Once on the brink of extinction, efforts to protect and reintroduce this magnificent bird have led to a thriving population that graces the skies once again.

Photographing Red Kite: Tips and Tricks

Photographing Red Kites, or any wildlife for that matter, requires patience, persistence, and a bit of luck. Here are a few tips for fellow enthusiasts:

• Timing is Everything: Arrive before feeding times to get a good spot and prepare for the action.
• Equipment Matters: A telephoto lens (150-600mm) is ideal for capturing distant subjects, but don’t underestimate the value of a lighter lens for longer sessions.
• Settings Make the Shot: Opt for a fast shutter speed to freeze motion, a wide aperture to isolate your subject, and let Auto ISO adjust to changing light conditions.
• Anticipate Their Movements: Instead of tracking, try predicting where the birds will be and focus there.

A Tale to Tell

This adventure was more than a photography trip; it was a journey into the heart of Scotland’s wildlife. The Red Kites of Dumfries and Galloway not only provided stunning visuals but also a deeper appreciation for nature’s resilience and beauty.

Conclusion

From the anticipation of the first sighting to the joy of capturing these sky dancers on camera, photographing Red Kites in Dumfries and Galloway has been an unforgettable experience.

It’s a reminder of the wild beauty that exists just beyond our doorsteps, waiting to be explored and cherished.

For those who share this passion for wildlife and photography, I encourage you to embark on your own adventure.

Whether it’s the Red Kites of Scotland or the hidden wonders of your local area, the natural world offers endless opportunities for discovery and inspiration.

So, grab your camera, and let’s chase the sky dancers together.