Aerial Mugging

Being in the right place at the right time is an important element of wildlife photography which sometimes relies on a good deal of luck. However, as someone pointed out to me luck is an acronym for Living Under Correct Knowledge which reminds me that sometimes you can make your own luck! Through an understanding of the behaviour of your subject matter, how it interacts with other wildlife and it’s environment you can start to anticipate what may happen next.
Prior to capturing this image I’d seen this Barn Owl dive into the grass and catch a Field Vole. As I watched it eating I observed it constantly lifting its head between bites and surveilling its surroundings. Having previously seen Kestrels trying to steal Barn Owl’s prey I understood the Owls furtive behaviour as I saw one heading in its direction. I focussed on the Owl and waited in anticipation. Sure enough the Kestrel attacked the Owl and in the ensuing action I managed to get this image. However, despite the Kestrel’s attempted mugging the Owl escaped with its prey firmly clamped in its beak.