A new study by Go2Africa involved an exhaustive search of Flickr’s database, identifying locations across the globe by their abundance of wildlife photography. The travel company quantified and ranked countries by their biodiversity and their popularity among wildlife photographers.
A Canada goose flaps its wings over water.Thomas Smith | Dreamstime
Canada's vast wilderness proved to be a hotspot for shutterbugs, with over 156,420 wildlife photos making up 20.42% of the country's tagged images. The impressive showcase of Canadian fauna highlights the country's biodiversity and the accessibility of its wildlife, making it a choice spot for photographers aiming to capture the beauty of the natural world.
Of course, Kenya took the top honours, with its endless savannahs and diverse ecosystems offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography. Accounting for 20.69% of the country's tagged photos, Kenya's wildlife-rich reserves like the Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park are where photographers can expect to snap the Big 5 in their natural habitat, including the lion, leopard, African elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo.
Two lions in Masai Mara reserve with a jeep in the background. Anagram1 | Dreamstime
In addition to country rankings, the study also shed light on the best national parks for wildlife photography. South Africa’s Kruger National Park emerged as the leading destination, with an impressive 42.54% of its photos featuring wildlife, underscoring its status as a wildlife photography hotspot.
The study also revealed Florida as the top U.S. state for wildlife photography, with 34.31% of images showcasing the state’s diverse wildlife, from its famous alligators to the colorful array of bird species inhabiting its wetlands and reserves.
A manatee underwater in Red River, Florida.Naluphot0 | Dreamstime
For anyone looking to improve their wildlife photography, the study offers a few pointers, emphasizing the need for patience and the right gear. Experts suggest lenses that allow for both wide landscapes and detailed close-ups. Stability is key, with tripods or monopods recommended for sharp, clear images. Moreover, understanding animal behavior and being at the right place at the right time is crucial for capturing those once-in-a-lifetime shots.
Whether it's the golden hour in the African bush or the quiet of a Canadian forest, the perfect photo often comes down to a moment of serendipity, enhanced by preparation and skill.
Roxanne Bruneau's Instagram story.
Wild turkey roaming Montreal's NDG neighbourhood.Courtesy of Dannielle Dyson
Wild turkey roaming Montreal's NDG neighbourhood.Courtesy of Dannielle Dyson