It often feels like Belted Kingfishers (Megaceryle alcyon) are taunting me. They boldly advertise their presence with a distinctive rattling call, but keep their distance or fly away quickly before I can spot them. I dream of spotting one at close range and getting some shots before it is aware of my presence.
Well, my dream did not not come true this past Monday, but I did manage to get some shots of a female Belted Kingfisher in flight while exploring Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. I took the shots at pretty long range as the kingfisher was moving from perch to perch in the distant trees.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I think you did a brilliant job of capturing her movement and beauty, Mike. I love how kingfishers have that distinctive rattle call, but it is so piercing that they are often farther away than they seem. Cheers–
Great action capture, Mike.
Nice Mike! They are a challenge to get closeup photos!
I only know this kingfisher through seeing photos but really love it and your photos of it busily in flight are wonderful!
The Kingfisher is a mighty tease to photographers, but what a beauty! I especially like your second image with the “decorated” tree.
I have hear of some 20 min. away from me now I must make my way there to see if I can spot one.
Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Good luck in spotting a kingfisher. Best wishes to you too for a Merry Christmas and a blessed new year.
Thanks!
Not easy for sure – they fly so fast!
Those are lovely shots! That first one took my breath away. Blessings!