Fun in the rain - well after it anyway
- Jul 22, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 11
After a very dry but not very sunny spring in North Yorkshire, and several weeks of a dry and dusty summer, it is not surprising that the local wildlife has not been feeling particularly energetic of late. However a couple of days of thundery downpours has certainly changed that for the better.
One of my regular sunrise visits to the High Batts Nature Reserve luckily coincided with a few hours break in the very welcome rain last weekend. The increase in wildlife activity was amazing with the bird feeders being particularly popular with both birds and some sneaky mammals. I was very fortunate to see a grey heron having a "shakedown" after the blustery weather, and then settling down for an hour to wait for breakfast.
Currently using the wonderful Canon R6 Mk2 full frame camera along with a Sigma 150-600 contemporary lens I am always paranoid about potential water damage to what is for me, very expensive equipment. It is likely that had I not had access to High Batts with its excellent hides last weekend I would not have ventured out.
The rain induced activity reminded me that many interesting wildlife scenarios can only be found during inclement weather. Hence having equipment that you are worried about getting wet, dusty, or cold is a very limiting factor. Having recently realised that the OM Systems micro four thirds gear is actually rated to be operated in wet and dusty conditions, unlike the major full frame brands, this has got me thinking ....
