Clockwork Masochistic Photography

There are some subject matters that allow us photographers to demonstrate our masochistic streak - wildlife so difficult to see, let alone photograph, that we drive ourselves nuts trying to capture the elusive creatures.  This weekend was one of those times.  Location - the pond.  Company - loads of people excitedly pointing and calling "Your way, it's heading your way!".  Including, incidentally, Mike Dilger, at Minsmere with the Swarovski chaps showing off their new BTX 'scope thingy and signing his book.  Amy was in the middle of interviewing him for her blog actually, but the lure of seeing these wee beasties was too much, so he was hung over the rail with all the rest of us :-)

The first pictures are mere glimpses, as they whizz about like little clockwork toys, just their nose out of the water

Then, a pause - a chance for a stable picture.  Except, Aargh!  Right in the algae!

OK, don't panic, sure he'll come up in a minute...  Yes!!  Oh no, why are there all those blasted plants in the pond?

Hang on, if I lean over the rail a bit further, I think I can.... Yes!

Trouble is, every time they reach a bit of open water where you might be able to get a picture of them, the pesky little blighters dive!

There he is!  Well, I say "He", no idea whether we're looking at male or female here - there were four of them zipping about like miniature Speedy Gonzalez

FINALLY!  Out in the open - found something to eat, though it looks like it's not too tasty

But he's not deterred and starts work attacking his find

I'll get into it eventually.....

Success!!  Some sort of larvae I guess, they normally hunt for that sort of thing

What an afternoon - by far and away the best Water Shrew watching day I've ever had :-)