Kingfisher

We settled down for a pre-recorded BBC Autumnwatch programme that included an item on how the kingfisher’s aero-dynamic shape was used to improve the design of the Japanese high-speed Shikansen trains. Initially aimed at reducing sonic boom when leaving tunnels, tests also showed that the improved designs were also more efficient in their overall use of energy.

We are lucky enough to see kingfishers on the Trent with some regularity, but this summer at Chatsworth was the first time we had watched one fishing from a perch.