Baby Spoon

Last month, I spent a peaceful evening wandering around Frampton Marsh RSPB — one of my favourite places to unwind and immerse myself in nature. There’s something uniquely calming about this fantastic reserve in the evening. With most of the day visitors gone, it’s often just you and the wildlife — no distractions, just birdsong and the whisper of the breeze across the marsh.

The light was magical — that low golden sun casting long shadows and warming everything with a soft, honeyed glow. After a hot, muggy day, the cooler breeze that swept across the wetlands was a welcome relief, and I settled in to enjoy the sights.

Among the many highlights that evening were the Spoonbills. They’re a species that always catches the eye — with their distinctive spatula-shaped bills and elegant stance. I was especially pleased to spot a juvenile Spoonbill, with it's smaller, pale bill that gives away its youth.

It stayed for a while, calmly feeding and preening in the shallows, allowing for some lovely views and a few quiet moments with the camera. Photographing Spoonbills at Frampton Marsh is always a treat, but this young bird, bathed in golden light, felt extra special.