Two bitterns take off from the reeds, their wings heavy but powerful. The male is recognisable by the blue base of his bill. The female follows, her wing beats just lighter, as if reading the air rather than cleaving it.
Together they hover above the shimmering water.
The male turns a small arc, waiting. The female slides next to him, so close that their wingtips almost touch. For a moment there is silence, except for the rhythm of two bodies moving in sync.
As they return towards the reeds, they sink slowly, as if the air does not yet want to let them go. They land side by side, almost simultaneously. Their necks stretch, eyes shining.
Flying for them is not an escape but a togetherness, a shared secret between water, air and reeds.
My name is Zeno Swijtink.
For as long as I can remember, I have had a passion for nature. I especially enjoy wandering through nature and I like to be guided by my curiosity.
I have been lucky enough to travel through many different countries, often with my camera as..
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