“Lying for more than three hours in freezing water left me close to hypothermic.” A wildlife photographer on capturing the right shot

Richard is a wildlife photographer whose work has been featured in BBC Wildlife journal and BBC Countryfile magazine. He has additionally been a finalist for Wildlife Photographer of the Year. UK-born, he presently lives in Canada.

How did your profession in wildlife pictures begin?

When I used to be ten years outdated. Having all the time been a eager naturalist and birdwatcher, pictures grew to become a pure development of my ardour for the outside. I needed to seize lasting reminiscences that mirrored my experiences in nature.

Which of your wildlife photos has meant essentially the most to you?

A hen harrier within the Cairngorms mountains. Photographing this iconic but more and more uncommon species in such a wild and dramatic panorama was really particular. Watching this male “grey ghost” hunt gracefully throughout the moorland was an unforgettable expertise.

What has been your most memorable encounter with wildlife?

My first shut assembly with a black bear in Algonquin Provincial Park, Canada. I used to be strolling alongside a path and all of the sudden we got here nose to nose. We each froze for a second. The bear then calmly moved again into cowl. I didn’t take a single photograph, however that quiet, highly effective alternate stays one of the vital unforgettable moments of my life.

You’ve labored within the navy, with a specialism in survival. How has this helped you as a wildlife photographer?

It has been invaluable. I realized easy methods to observe wildlife, use camouflage and concealment, and transfer quietly, unseen. I can mix into my environment, and seize intimate moments with out inflicting disturbance.

Have you had any notably furry wildlife experiences?

While photographing pink deer stags throughout the autumn rut on Exmoor, I used to be trekking via boggy floor and deep heather, carrying a big lens and a tripod below my arm.

As I reached the hilltop, a dominant stag charged me, mistaking the tripod for antlers. Thankfully, he realised I wasn’t a rival, and we each backed off unhurt.

Any epic fails to share?

I spent a number of lengthy days in a cover on the moors, hoping to {photograph} the elusive merlin searching. On the ultimate night, as the sunshine pale, I began packing as much as depart. The second I stepped exterior, the merlin appeared and landed on its favorite rock. 

Which species continues to elude you? 

The coyote. I’ve spent numerous hours in a distant area of Canada attempting to {photograph} a big group, but regardless of my finest efforts, they all the time outsmart me. 

What was your most tough challenge?

Peregrine falcons in Cornwall. I’ve spent days hid alongside cliffs, hoping to seize them within the morning gentle. Their extraordinary eyesight and cautious nature make it extraordinarily tough to get shut. As the peregrine is a protected Schedule 1 species, I need to hold a respectful distance. But the dream picture retains me returning.

What’s the worst bodily discomfort you’ve needed to endure?

After hours monitoring a dominant pink deer stag and his harem, I positioned myself in a shallow hillside stream to stay hidden as they approached. Lying for greater than three hours in freezing water left me near hypothermic, however the intimate photos I captured made each shiver worthwhile.

What has been your favorite species to give attention to? 

The barn owl. This iconic chook of the British countryside by no means fails to captivate me. Its silent, sleek flight, ghostly look and unbelievable searching potential make each encounter magical. 

Which one piece of equipment would you not be with out?

My Cotton Carrier G3 harness. It’s like having an additional arm, permitting me to hold two digicam our bodies/lenses and binoculars securely whereas protecting my arms free. This freedom is invaluable when shifting via difficult terrain. It’s a game-changer.

Any ideas for budding photographers?

Know your tools inside out, develop robust fieldcraft, and examine your topics. Always put the welfare of the animals above the shot. Respect and persistence are key. 

See extra of Richard’s work at richardbirchett.co.uk.