The kingfisher is usually glimpsed as a sudden flash of electric blue, darting over water before diving to claim its prize… prey which can often be heavier than bird itself. This tiny but colourful bird is a splendid sight, bathing in sunlight on a waterside perch. Yet sadly they are vulnerable to hard winters and habitat degradation through pollution or unsympathetic management of watercourses. Kingfishers are amber listed because of their unfavourable conservation status in Europe. In Rachel’s design, a contented little kingfisher perches upon delicate grasses, poised to take flight and dart away at a moment’s notice.

Produced under license from RSPB Sales Ltd to raise awareness of the RSPB (charity registration England and Wales no 207076 and Scotland no SC037654). For all licensed products sold by W. Moorcroft Ltd, W. Moorcroft Ltd will donate £1000 per annum to RSPB Sales Ltd, which gives all its distributable profits through Gift Aid to the RSPB.

This is number 348 in the edition.