Wildlife photographers across Cumbria and the North Pennines have captured a remarkable series of summer encounters, featuring everything from soaring birds of prey and hunting owls to hidden foxes, curious rabbits and colourful insects.

The photographs were taken as the final weeks of meteorological summer approached during one of the driest periods ever recorded in England. According to the Met Office, July 2026 was the driest July in records dating back to 1836, with just 6.5mm of rainfall recorded across the country.

The prolonged dry conditions created challenges for wildlife, but they also provided photographers with rare opportunities to observe animals in open landscapes and capture unexpected moments in nature.

Birds of Prey Take Centre Stage

In Cumbria, photographer Paul Murdock captured a dramatic scene near Coniston when a gull appeared to chase a red kite across a clear blue sky.

He described watching the gull “mob” the bird of prey as a memorable experience, showing the intense interactions that can occur between different species in the wild.

Murdock also photographed a blue damselfly resting on a leaf in Whitehaven during the evening sunlight. Using a telephoto lens, he was finally able to capture the delicate insect at close range after previously finding it difficult to approach.

Another striking encounter was recorded by Lee Johnston near Allenheads in the North Pennines, where he witnessed a short-eared owl hunting close by.

The owl flew towards him before diving into the long grass in search of prey. Johnston said seeing the bird hunting only metres away was an experience he would never forget.

Wildlife Hidden in Plain Sight

Photographer Natasha Roberts captured several quiet moments in Cumbria. Near Staveley, she photographed a fox hidden among tall grass, while in Windermere she captured a curious rabbit staring directly into the camera.

Jamie McCaffrey also photographed a young tawny owl near Arnside. The fluffy owlet was sitting among tree branches while its mother remained nearby, almost impossible to notice because her feathers matched the texture and colour of the tree bark.

Colourful Summer Encounters

The warm summer weather provided opportunities to capture some of the region’s most colourful wildlife.

Phil Groves photographed a female kingfisher beside the River Kent in Kendal. The bird’s vivid orange chest and turquoise feathers stood out against the darker green background of the shaded river.

Groves said kingfishers are one of his favourite subjects, although their speed and unpredictable movements often make them challenging to photograph.

Other photographers captured smaller summer visitors, including a hoverfly resting on bright buddleia flowers in Newcastle and a starling perched on a wooden chair after approaching a photographer.

A young starling was also photographed sitting on the back of a sheep in Forest-in-Teesdale, creating an unusual but charming moment between two very different animals.

Rare Moments in Nature

Photographer Tarquin Pentecast captured a hare grazing during an evening meal on the west coast of Cumbria. He said he was fortunate to see the animal, as hare sightings have become less common in the area.

Together, the photographs highlight the variety of wildlife found across northern England, from large birds of prey and mammals to insects that often go unnoticed.

Although dry weather can create additional pressure for animals, these encounters show that summer landscapes remain full of activity. With patience, careful observation and a little luck, photographers can reveal extraordinary moments hidden within everyday natural surroundings.