Wind, Wildlife and a Touch of Persistence — DPA at Vane Farm
Date : Saturday 26th September 2026
Our first field trip of the new DPA season took us to Vane Farm on the shores of Loch Leven — and, as soon as we arrived, it was clear that the wind was going to make life interesting for our photographers!
It wasn’t exactly ideal birding weather, with the blustery conditions making both finding and photographing our feathered subjects a real challenge. But wildlife photography is often as much about patience and persistence as having the right conditions. And there was plenty to keep us occupied.
Among the highlights was the ever-elusive Snipe, with several of the group managing to spot one tucked away amongst the reeds. Getting a photograph was another matter!
Over coffee and lunch, conversation turned to a female Marsh Harrier that had been seen in the area. For some of the group that proved to be a particularly useful conversation — because after returning to the reserve, Ken was rewarded for his persistence with a sighting and managed to photograph her in flight.
There was plenty more to discover around the reserve too, from insects and flowers to the red squirrel area and the colourful artwork around the site.
And, of course, a field trip isn’t just about the photographs. It’s about getting out together, sharing the experience, comparing sightings and enjoying the inevitable discussions over coffee!
Watch the video
We’ve put together a short film from the day, combining video from the trip with photographs taken by members of the group.
Windy weather, elusive birds, some unexpected wildlife — and a Marsh Harrier that made the return trip worthwhile!
The Vane Farm team
Gillian Temple — President
Ken Goodfellow
Val McManus
Ruth McIntyre
Bob Brownlie
Ian & Elizabeth Monk
A great start to our 2026/27 field-trip programme — and a reminder that sometimes the best photographs come to those who keep looking.
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