p.1 #1 · Danube Delta and the Last Frontier - Part 2
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Hi
As a continuation to my previous post....
We had one morning session left in the hide (blind) boat before we were going to move to another part of the Danube Delta which we spent with a small colony of Black Terns.
We then left Mila 23 and headed up to the far NE corner of delta to Periprava on the Ukraine border to a place known as Ultima Frontiera (the Last Frontier). This a 2500 acre island that was an old fish farm that has been left abandoned for years and has recently been opened up for wildlife photography. In fact we were amongst the first group of paying visiting photographers. A number of hides (blinds) have been built and there are also a dozen all terrain electric golf carts for those who want to go out stalking. The abundance and diversity of wildlife here is staggering but our main reason for visiting was it is one of probably only two places in Europe you can photograph the European Golden Jackal. An animal which most Europeans do not even know exists!
I will start with the jackals before getting on to some of the birds.We spent three morning sessions trying to photograph them. Two of these sessions were overcast and quite gloomy which made for some more tricky photography as the two jackal blinds are fitted with one way glass (similar to the type used in Bence Mates hides) through which you loss about 2 stops of lights. Obviously a good time to have a 1dx with you .
No you may be wondering why this beautiful animal is not looking very happy. The reason is that two White-tailed Eagle had arrived to also feed on the large carp carcass.
With the birds at Ultima Frontiera, I spent quite a lot of the time stalking as I always prefer a mobile approach to a fixed blind. Most of this time was used trying to get photographs of Bearded Reedling, a new species for me, which as with any birds in reed beds can be very frustrating. However, patience always wins through.
p.1 #9 · Danube Delta and the Last Frontier - Part 2
More stellar stuff, Rich. Such exceptional work. Favorites are #4 (raised foot jackal), the Hoopoe with head feathers displayed. Bee Eaters are just awesome. Too many to remark on.
p.1 #13 · Danube Delta and the Last Frontier - Part 2
What a pleasure it is for me to view your fantastic images Richard... your choices for light angle, low POV (when available as in #1), composition, and golden hour shooting have produced a masterful set of images.
Opening shot of the Black Terns is gorgeous, as well as many of the other bird images... just brilliant work.
The most engaging pics for me are of the European Golden Jackals... the second session gave you beautiful light and you really captured the intensity of the moment.
Excellent work, and I'm sure your images will be putting this remarkable location on many bucket lists.
p.1 #15 · Danube Delta and the Last Frontier - Part 2
Absolutely a stunning set Richard each image a pure joy to view. I kept wondering when I would see one that would not measure up to the previous one in the set-------- there isn't one Such varity and I for sure would not want to get on the wrong side of that jackal
p.1 #18 · Danube Delta and the Last Frontier - Part 2
Thanks for the replies and kind words. These trip are physically quite hard work but that is due mainly to sleep deprivation as you are out very early and late to get the best light. Generally you have a 'rest' in the middle of the day, although you tend to spend that time eating lunch, downloading and backing up images and recharging batteries. Obviously these are just a tiny selection and typically we were taking a taking a large number of photos each session as the place is so productive.
Raymond look forward yo seeing the results from your trip. You will have a great time
Mogul this site is located in Romania and next to the SE corner of Ukraine. It is currently well removed from the sadly troubled areas.
Michael although the jackals may look vicious they are actually very cautious animals.
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Each is special and so enjoyable.