Dorset Camera Club member Scott Usher captured the split second a gull hauled a very large crab from the English Channel after diving down to secure its next meal.

READ MORE: Wildlife photographer captures stunning birds of prey in Christchurch Harbour

Gull captures huge crab at Hengistbury HeadGull captures huge crab at Hengistbury Head (Image: Scott Usher, Dorset Camera Club)

The photographer said the impressively large, orange coloured crab fought vigorously to free itself and ultimately escaped.

Mr Usher reported that by the end of the brawl, the bird flew off empty-beaked after a rare on-camera encounter between hunter and prey.

On Facebook Mr Usher said: “Moments like this don’t come often !

“It should have been an easy meal but this rarely seen Spider Crab had other plans!”

To join the Dorset Camera Club, visit facebook.com/groups/echocameraclubdorset

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