The beauty and diversity of the English Lake District is never more apparent than when kayaking around the northern shores of Coniston Water.
The lake is home to a huge number of species of flora and fauna.
Grey Herons stand to attention in the shallows at the water’s edge, watching and waiting for small fish to stab for their supper. Alternative feeding methods include perching precariously on an old wooden fence post for an elevated view of the water and what lurks beneath. Mallard’s take a more comical and direct approach to scan the depths.
Female Goosanders carry their chicks on their backs as the family slowly explore, feeding and playing in the warmer shallow water.
Mallards dabble amongst the weed, the drake showing off his beautiful plumage in the sunshine. The female looking drab in comparison until a closer inspection reveals beautiful patterns of camoflauge colours.
Summer water lilies float on the surface of sheltered inlets, their flowers open in the warmth of the sun and closed again by bedtime.
A pair of majestic Mute Swans feed on submerged aquatic plants and weed. Sadly without cygnets this year, but still to be wary of when paddling kayaks in their territory.
Coniston Water is 5.25 miles long and 0.5 miles wide. Cold waters reach 184 feet deep in places and it is the third largest lake in the Lake District. It is my playground and home to many. Imagine having all this on your doorstep all year round.
August 2017
Diana Marshall-Kay
Diskay Photography