Scary Moments in Wildlife Photography

Wildlife photography can be a thrilling and adventurous pursuit, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture stunning moments in nature. However, it can also be relentlessly challenging, especially when one has to deal with unexpected dangers. In this article, three harrowing experiences from wildlife photographers are shared, highlighting the unpredictability of nature and the importance of staying prepared.

An Electrifying Encounter with a Puff Adder

As a seasoned wildlife photographer, Ankit’s career has involved numerous excursions into uncharted territories. Notably, one of his most frightening encounters took place while photographing meerkats in the Kalahari desert. Meerkats, generally accustomed to human presence, were not overly perturbed by his presence on that sunny morning.

In the early hours, Ankit cleared the area around the burrow and positioned himself about six meters away, ready to capture the meerkats as they emerged to bask in the morning sun. Suddenly, he observed what seemed like a stick entering the burrow. Assuming the meerkats had merely moved it, he continued with his photography.

However, his tranquil scene was soon disrupted by an urgent movement towards his position. His guide, whispering urgently from four meters away, instructed him to remain motionless. It was then that Ankit discovered the true nature of the disturbance: a puff adder, a venomous snake, had been chasing out of the burrow and making a direct approach towards him.

Realizing the peril, Ankit chose to remain motionless, enveloped in a rush of adrenaline. With a cool head and a clear mind, he watched the snake gliding past. The experience was surreal, particularly given the lack of medical facilities in the Kalahari. Thankfully, the snake moved past, prompting Ankit to call it a day and head back to safety. This encounter is a testament to the importance of situational awareness and remaining calm in the face of danger.

A Close Call with a Bear in the Wild

In another exciting but perilous tale, Ankit recalls his encounter with a bear in 2004. During a beach excursion, a bear started following him, leading him in circles within the forest. Equipped only with a whistle, Ankit managed to draw the attention of his classmates, finding safety in their company. Today, with visual impairments, the risks become more significant, as dangers like hornets, tom turkeys, and spiders could pose life-threatening hazards.

Awe-Inspiring Yet Terrifying Encountering for Non-Photographers

While not a photographer, Ankit shares an equally chilling story from 2011, when he was 14 years old. The memory brings back the feeling of terror as vividly as the event itself. The group was on a month-long trip from Gujarat to Utrayan, heading towards Yamunotri. It was around 7 p.m., and the vehicle was filled with four people, including Ankit’s father, who was driving. Suddenly, they encountered a massive, undetermined creature from a nearby valley, standing in front of their vehicle. Ankit and his companions were petrified, the creature staring intently, leaving them momentarily robbed of words.

This experience, though not directly related to wildlife photography, underscores the underlying dangers of venturing into the wild. In such scenarios, the unknown can be frightening and should be approached with the utmost caution.

Conclusion

These stories are a reminder that while the pursuit of nature through the lens of a camera can be exhilarating, it often comes with hidden risks. The key lies in being prepared, staying aware of one’s surroundings, and having a plan to react to unexpected situations. For all aspiring wildlife photographers, these tales offer a valuable cautionary lesson and the confidence to face the challenges of the natural world.

Remember: respect for nature, preparation, and sound judgment are paramount in ensuring a safe and memorable journey into the wild.