Location: Basingstoke Canal
Activity: Wildlife walk and photography
Species Encountered: Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Migrant Hawker (Aeshna mixta), Willow Emerald (Chalcolestes viridis), Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), European Robin (Erithacus rubecula), Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus), Great Tit (Parus major) and Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

On the 7th and 9th September, I spent some time walking quietly along the Basingstoke Canal, hoping to photograph a Kingfisher that we had previously seen in the area. These walks were less about completing a formal survey and more about slowing down, watching and listening to what was happening around me.

It was really enjoyable just being quiet beside the canal and taking the time to notice both the wildlife and the sounds around me. I spotted the Kingfisher, which was the main reason for the visits, along with several other species using the canal and surrounding vegetation.

There was still plenty of insect activity, including Migrant Hawkers and Willow Emeralds around the water. Mallards were also present on the canal, while the surrounding trees and scrub were busy with Robins, Blue Tits and Great Tits. I also saw a Grey Squirrel moving through the area.

These two visits reminded me how useful quiet observation can be. Waiting for the Kingfisher encouraged me to stay still and pay closer attention, and in doing so I noticed far more of the wildlife around me. It was also a lovely opportunity to combine my growing interest in wildlife photography with field observation.

Photographs