The Links Page provided by Elliott Neep Wildlife Photography

LOCATIONS FOR WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre (Mid-Wales)

In my opinion, this is the best place in the UK to photograph arguably the most beautiful raptor, the red kite. The operators have worked hard to provide excellent hide facilities catering for all levels, from the wildlife watcher to the professional. The best hides for the wildlife photographer are the Gateway and Tower hides. Both have extra-large apertures in order to wave around the big glass. Feeding times are between 2-3:00pm depending on the time of year.

The Barn Owl Centre (Gloucester)

Operated by Vince Jones, an accomplished photographer in his own right, the Barn Owl Centre hosts group photography days for a modest fee. 1:1 photographic days are available for a fee which is wholly justifiable. If you have the imagination, Vince can place the owls and raptors exactly where you want them.

The Royal Parks (London)

An under-utilised location for amateur wildlife photographers. Professionals can expect to pay an extortionate fee, but if you are an amateur, then the Royal Parks host tolerant red and fallow deer (Richmond Park), friendly squirrels that eat out of your hand (Regents), approachable grey herons (Regents), kestrels, parakeets, captive exotic wildfowl... the list goes on. For the London-dweller, there are no better places to photograph wildlife.

The Farne Islands (Northumberland)

Just off the Northumberland coastline, the Farne Islands are a small group of rocks that are home to thousands of seabirds from May to July. Regular boats ferry passengers too and from the islands throughout the day for an eye-opening wildlife spectacle. Puffins, guillemots, razorbills, arctic terns, sandwich terns, gulls, and seals await you. You do not even need the big glass as the seabirds have no fear of man. At times, you may even need watch your feet in case you stand on a few stray tail feathers!

Skomer Island (Pembrokeshire)

Similar to the Farne Islands, but on a larger scale, Skomer Island is another of the UK's premier seabird colonies. In less density than the Farne Islands, but just as approachable, the puffins are singularly the main attraction. However, there are a host of other subjects including the swathes of spring wildflowers, little and short eared owls, fulmars, and the infamous rabbits. Sailings operate from Martin's Haven throughout the day.

Formby (Lancashire)

One of England's last sanctuaries for our indigenous red squirrel. The National Trust maintain the pine woodland reserve and it is probably the easiest place in the UK to photograph this charming little character. Along the squirrel walk, they have become so familiar with people, they actively seek out those carrying food and may even feed out of your hand! No big glass required here, just a little food, small lenses, and a little patience. The best time has to be during the winter when their fur is thicker and when more sunlight reaches the ground.

British Wildlife Centre (Surrey)

A zoo-style operation that operates photography days throughout the year (apart from school holidays). The centre hosts various animals including otters, red fox, badgers, deer, polecats, owls, raptors, and many more. On arrival, simply ask when the animals are expected to be fed for the closest views. Most of the characters here enjoy large and natural-looking enclosures, that lend well to photography. The marvel of this location is that you are allowed inside the enclosures to get those close-up shots that would rarely be possible in the wild.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS & FILM-MAKERS

CONSERVATION

Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA)

The EIA was established in 1984 to investigate, expose and campaign against the illegal trade in wildlife and the destruction of our natural environment. Working undercover to expose international environmental crime -such as the illegal trade in wildlife, illegal logging and trade in timber species, and the world-wide trade in ozone depleting substances – The EIA has directly brought about changes in international laws and the policies of governments, saving the lives of millions of rare and endangered animals and putting a stop to the devastating effects of environmental criminals.

Tiger Awareness

A charity organisation that aids projects to help people who live on the peripheries of the Parks/Reserves and also the forest guards that help protect the forests and wildlife. Help is provided to the guards with equipment such as binoculars, cycles and mosquito nets allowing them to do there jobs more effectively. Tiger Awareness works with local organisations in the Sundarbans, Bandhavgarh, and Ranthambhore.

The Wildlife Trusts

The Wildlife Trusts partnership is the UK’s leading conservation charity exclusively dedicated to wildlife. Caring for over 2,560 nature reserves from rugged coastline to urban wildlife havens.

ONLINE SUPPLIERS

Warehouse Express

Probably the best online photographic and imaging store for the British market. They've have an extensive selection and very competitive prices with next day delivery available for most items. Worth calling them before you purchase and urgent item though as they don't tell you if something is out of stock.

7DayShop

"7dayshop.com was launched in early 2000, and continues to establish itself as the UK's largest Internet supplier to the photographic enthusiast market. The large buying power that 7dayshop.com enjoys, combined with our geographical location has meant that massive savings have been passed on to our customers."

B&H: The Professional Source

A gigantic and awesome camera store based in New York. Even with the duties payable on this side of the pond, the exchange rate (as long as it is over $1.70/£1) assures a good saving. Its worth checking it out just to see the vast range of products and great product information.

Wildlife Watching Supplies

All you need to get closer to the wildlife! Designed and developed by wildlife photographer Kevin Keatley. THE place to go for camouflage clothing, wildlife hides, double beanbags, weatherproof camera, lens, and tripod covers.