Missed Opportunitiy (sparrowhawk)

One of the joys of photographing wildlife is when you see something unexpected and manage to record the moment. Often this requires speed and a fair portion of luck, such as with my recent shot of a kingfisher in flight. At least with the kingfisher I could see where it was and had an approximate focus. The good fortune was in seeing it move from its branch, and reacting quickly enough before it was out of frame.

More often the problem is that you don't see the moment coming. About a week ago I was in the garden when a sparrowhawk flashed along its length. I was quick, but not quick enough as you can see by this blur. No time to focus, no time to track the flight and no time to adjust any of the camera settings to give even a modicum of hope of capturing anything viewable.
Sparrowhawk in flight (take my word for it!)

I had a similar experience today, but this time I think I was probably too quick. I had just settled down by the local dew pond to photograph the dragonflies. There were a few darters about, and in the trees on the far side I could see some goldfinches. I'd taken a few flight shots of a darter and was looking around to see where they might settle.
Common darter

As I was watching the far side of the pond (it's about 15 metres across), a sparrowhawk descended to the water's edge. I've not seen one there before so it was a special treat. I should have stayed motionless and waited, but foolishly I moved the camera. That was enough for me to be spotted, and before I could release the shutter it was gone. The most fleeting of sightings. So the first time I was too slow, the second too quick.

No such problem with the larger mammals though. They'll happily pose for the camera, and after a break of several days the young fox was back this evening exploring the garden after dark. His limp seems to have completely healed, and apart from some scratches on his leg he looked fine and was happy to wander around. No need to rush shots with him. I even had time to go inside to change the camera battery. Oh for a sparrowhawk that would allow that luxury!

The young fox poses for the camera