As a professional photographer specializing in wildlife, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles.
My recent trip to Madzharovo, Bulgaria, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, offered an unforgettable experience as I captured a fierce battle between a golden jackal and vultures over a carcass.
The Setting: Madzharovo’s Untamed Beauty
Madzharovo, nestled in the Eastern Rhodopes, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its rugged terrain, dotted with rocky outcrops and dense forests, provides a perfect backdrop for observing some of Europe’s rarest bird species. The area is particularly renowned for its vulture population, including the majestic black vulture and the griffon vulture.
The Encounter: A Battle Unfolds
One morning during my trip to Madzharovo, we set out before dawn as usual to secure our spot in the special hide for photographers in the mountains, eager to capture the early activity of scavengers. I had my Sony a7 IV with the FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS (SEL200600G) and my Sony a7 III with the SIGMA 70-200 F/2.8 DG DN OS Sports, dedicated to video footage.
After patiently waiting for several hours, close to noon, a golden jackal appeared. A large group of griffon vultures and a few black vultures had descended upon the carcass placed in front of us. Their presence attracted the jackal, who cautiously approached the area.
The Struggle for Survival
The determined jackal circled the carcass, assessing its chances against the larger and more numerous vultures. The tension in the air was palpable. I adjusted my camera settings, ready to capture every detail of the impending clash.
Suddenly, the jackal made its move, darting forward with surprising speed and aggression. The vultures, initially startled, quickly organized a defense, spreading their massive wings and hissing loudly. The ensuing battle was both fierce and chaotic, a raw display of survival instincts. At one point, the jackal leaped into the air to try and drive away one of the black vultures, providing some great shots.
Capturing the Moment
Photographing such a dynamic and intense interaction required quick reflexes and careful composition. I focused on the interplay of movements – the jackal’s agile lunges and the vultures’ defensive postures. Each shot told a story of desperation and determination, highlighting the harsh realities of life in the wild.
Reflection: The Power of Nature
Witnessing this struggle first-hand was a humbling reminder of nature’s unyielding cycle of life and death. The golden jackal and black vultures, both formidable in their own right, demonstrated the relentless fight for survival that characterizes the animal kingdom.
This experience in Madzharovo reinforced my passion for wildlife photography. It is moments like these that drive me to continue exploring and capturing the raw beauty of nature. Through my lens, I hope to share these powerful encounters with others, fostering a deeper appreciation for the incredible creatures that inhabit our world.
Conclusion: A Call to Conservation
Madzharovo is not just a photographer’s paradise; it is a crucial habitat for many endangered species. The preservation of such areas is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems. As I reflect on the battle between the golden jackal and black vultures, I am reminded of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and their natural habitats.
In sharing my journey and these images, I aim to raise awareness about the need to safeguard our planet’s wildlife for future generations to witness and cherish.
Spring 2025 Wildlife Photography Workshop in Madzharovo: Capturing Vultures, Foxes, Jackals, Golden Eagles and more
During our workshop in Madzharovo, photographers will have the unique opportunity to capture stunning images of the region’s diverse wildlife, mostly vultures (the rare egyptian vulture, griffons and black vultures), foxes, jackals, golden eagles, and more. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Rhodopes, Madzharovo offers an ideal setting with its rugged landscapes and rich biodiversity. Participants will benefit from expert guidance on techniques for wildlife photography, while exploring the best vantage points in photographers hide. Each day begins before dawn to maximize the chances of witnessing the early morning activities of these magnificent creatures, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience in capturing the raw beauty and drama of the animal kingdom. We will spend all of our days in the hide, maximizing our chances capturing unique images. For more info contact me!
