How Photographers Spot Signs of Wildlife in the Sundarbans

Tiger sighting is not all a Sundarbans wildlife photography tour entails. The true challenge is knowledge of the forest and knowing what the signs of animals are. The old-time photographers of wildlife spend more time looking at the tracks, sounds, move and changes in the surroundings than looking through the viewfinder of the camera.

With its dense mangrove vegetation, tidal creeks and muddy tidal flats, the Sundarbans is a very special place for wildlife photography.

Seeking Signs Of Animals In The Mud

If fresh pugmarks are found, it means that a tiger has recently walked over an area. Deer tracks are also sought after as are tracks made by wild boar, otter and other animals. Footprints can be useful clues as to what animals might be around if you know their size, shape and freshness.

But tracks should never be used as an indicator that an animal is still present. Tide can easily wash away evidence and older tracks can be seen even if the animal has gone a long distance.

Watching the Behaviour of Deer

The spotted deer are one of the animals that is photographed most frequently in the Sundarbans, and can also aid in identifying predators.

It is important for photographers to make sure they watch for any changes in the deer's behaviour. If a group suddenly becomes alert, ceases feeding, or repeatedly turns towards one particular area it may have noticed something unusual.

They can be a nuisance from their alarm calls. An experienced photographer may walk along with the animals' direction of focus rather than blindly running around the forest, but keeping a distance.

Listening to the Forest

As with many forms of photography, wildlife photography is more about listening than it is about seeing.

Any sounds of the birds, sudden splashes in the water or rustling vegetation or a strange quiet can help. When a predator comes close, various birds & animals respond differently.

A safari is rare, therefore, to hear photographers speaking needlessly. Staying silent helps them to hear sounds that might not otherwise be heard and will help to minimise impact on wildlife.

Find Movement in the Mangroves

Mangroves are very dense and can make it hard to spot animals. Photographers do not necessarily look for the entire animal, but rather for movements.

A flicking tail, moving branches, pair of eyes or a change in shape in the leaves may indicate the presence of wildlife. Patience is especially important as the animal can be hiding for minutes before it will slowly come out.

That's where a long telephoto lens comes in handy. It enables the photographer to take photographs without invading a wild animal's space and disrupting its natural activities.

Signs are more than footprints

This is an ability that can be strengthened when you go on a wildlife safari tour to the Sundarban. You don't always get to shoot a tiger or a rare bird, but knowing what the forest is saying to you can help you get ready for what you are likely to see and shoot more natural and meaningful photos.