Recently I was sent a copy of a DVD called the secret life of a sparrow hawk, filmed by David Culley and narrated by Chris Packham. This film was 10 years in the making as a Dave undertook all the filming himself! Unique behaviour was captured and inspiring and incredible footage is included in the hour (Approx) long film on these beautiful birds.
Take a trip to the sparrowhawk Island website
Dave had a great response to the film from industry professionals and experts including -
Take a trip to the sparrowhawk Island website
Dave had a great response to the film from industry professionals and experts including -
- Sir David Attenborough
- Chris Packham
- Chris Sperring MBE
- Prof Ian Mewton
- David Cobham
Dave created a unimaginable bond with the pair of sparrowhawks from 'sparrowhawk island' and as they grew to trust him he was able to get up close to their nest; and at one point, the female even hopped onto his forearm in an amazing piece of footage. A series of camouflage tunnels and secret filming towers allowed Dave to film every aspect of the sparrowhawks life. His work appeared on springwatch in 2010 and is a huge inspiration for amateur film-makers across the wildlife world.
The film delves right into the depths of their hidden lives revealing nest building in November/October all the way to why 19 different species of song bird nest right next to the sparrowhawk. He follows the pair of sparrowhawks all the way to when the birds disperse in August. Plus, all the way throughout there is natural history presenter Chris Packham narrating.
The film delves right into the depths of their hidden lives revealing nest building in November/October all the way to why 19 different species of song bird nest right next to the sparrowhawk. He follows the pair of sparrowhawks all the way to when the birds disperse in August. Plus, all the way throughout there is natural history presenter Chris Packham narrating.
The blurb on the back of the DVD states:
"The sparrowhawk is one of Britain's most common birds of prey but also one of the most misuderstood and persecuted birds. Find out the real story, as we follow for the first time on film, nearly a whole year with a pair of wild sparrowhawks"
"The sparrowhawk is one of Britain's most common birds of prey but also one of the most misuderstood and persecuted birds. Find out the real story, as we follow for the first time on film, nearly a whole year with a pair of wild sparrowhawks"
"Using HD and the latest in minature cameras"
"Using HD and the latest in minature cameras, cobined with incredible patience, a film ten years in the making, Dave Culley has managed to reveal a secret life full of tragedy, love and determination"
I was very grateful to receive this DVD and watched it all in one sitting. I found the flow of the stories and behaviour so interesting to watch. This is really worth investing in or adding to your Christmas or birthday wishlists.
Please follow the link below to Dave Culley's website where you can purchase this DVD and learn more about the film
Please follow the link below to Dave Culley's website where you can purchase this DVD and learn more about the film
Sparrowhawk Island Website
Below is a preview of what you can expect from the DVD... the quality is reduced in this YouTube clip compared to the stunning footage and quality of the DVD