Have You Seen This? Kingfisher shows us human anglers how it's done

A kingfisher dives into a pond for its next meal in this image taken from a video posted May 17, in Spain.

A kingfisher dives into a pond for its next meal in this image taken from a video posted May 17, in Spain. (ViralHog via YouTube)


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SPAIN – It takes some pretty special attributes to get the title of "king" added to your name. For example, the king snake is resistant to venom and can eat rattlesnakes and cottonmouths. I'd say that definitely qualifies it for such a regal status.

Another prime example is the kingfisher. These birds are experts at grabbing aquatic prey, like fish, frogs and crustaceans right from the water. Kingfisher strikes are fast, effective and absolutely magnificent.

"With the elegance of a master diver, the kingfisher tenses its muscular body, ready to embark on a swift descent," explains the video's unusually eloquent caption. "The silence becomes palpable, as the bird enters a realm of its own, devoid of any distractions. ... As the kingfisher cuts through the air like an arrow, its wings morph into a streamlined shape, designed for optimal speed and precision. ... In the realm beneath the lake's tranquil facade, chaos erupts. A symphony of bubbles and ripples dance around the kingfisher, showcasing its lightning-fast reflexes. The world underwater transforms into a flurry of motion as the fish attempts to evade capture, but the kingfisher is relentless in its pursuit."

I don't know about you, but I definitely feel inspired. On my next fishing trip, I'll try to be "designed for optimal speed and precision," use "lightning-fast reflexes" and be "relentless in my pursuit."

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Grant Olsen for KSLGrant Olsen
Grant Olsen joined the KSL contributor team in 2012. He covers outdoor adventures, travel, product reviews and other interesting things.

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