Equipment

I use the following equipment:-

Canon Cameras and Lenses EOS 5D mk II body EOS 7D body EF 500mm f4 L IS lens EF 400mm f4 DO IS lens EF 300mm f2.8 L IS lens EF 100mm f2.8 Macro lens EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 L IS zoom lens EF 70-200mm f2.8 L IS mk2 zoom lens EF 24-105mm f4L L IS zoom lens EF 16-35mm f2.8 L mk2 zoom lens EF 2x Extender EF 1.4x Extenderer Angle finder

Camera supports

Firm stable camera and lens support is essential when using long lenses. I use a Gitzo G1348 carbon fibre tripod with a Manfrotto 405 Pro Geared Head (an absolute joy to use for landscape and macro use), and also a Wimberley Gimble Head . When unable to use a tripod, or working from a vehicle, a Wildlife Watching Supplies double beanbag filled with bird seeds does the trick perfectly.

Lowepro

Carrying and protecting your equipment is vital, which is why I use Lowepro. With their superb build quality and vast range to choose from, you can't go wrong. My own choice is a Pro Trekker AW II and Lens Trekker 600 AW combined with smaller bags. I take the gear I want from the Pro Trekker and transfer it to the Lens Trekker or smaller bags so that I can carry just what I need without lugging everything around with me.

Hides and Clothing

It is vital to keep warm while sat quietly in the midst of winter. Since investing in some excellent clothing from Kevin Keatley of Wildlife Watching Supplies, I have always remained dry, warm and well hidden by its Advantage camouflage pattern. I wear a 5 in 1 Jacket consisting of an outer coat, a water & windproof lining and an inner fleece (that are all detachable). With this I ware a pair of Six-Pocket Trousers, made from the same soft hardwearing outer material and also having a detachable water & windproof lining. In winter I use a pair of Thinsulate Mitt/Gloves and a fleece hat. I frequently use a Mini Dome Hide from Wildlife Watching Supplies. This has a sewn in ground sheet. The hide is quick and easy to put up and always provides excellent protection from the rain and wind, while providing good visibility from within.

Filters

Various Lee neutral density graduated filters, circular polarising filter, with foundation kit holder and standard and wide-angle hoods.