DIVING up to 70-miles per hour to catch its dinner this kingfisher is a high-speed hunter at its most magnificent. Pictures show how the skilful bird launches itself into a nosedive before smashing itself into the riverwater below – and emerging victorious with a hapless fish in its beak. Scientist Fabio Pittarello (54) took the eye-opening shots while visiting the River Brenta, near Venice, Italy.

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Size: 4110px × 2743px
Photo credit: © Media Drum World / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: alcedines, bird, brenta, fish, hunting, italy, kingfisher, nature, photography, prey, river, spectacular, wildlife