PHOTOGRAPH NORWAY’S WINTER RAPTORS
MORE INFORMATION
Join me to photograph Golden Eagles and Goshawks in Norway. Due to previous popularity, we have now added an extra day to this trip.
This 6 day photographic tour will be hosted in southern Norway, in an incredible wilderness, where we will search for some of the most iconic but elusive birds of prey, the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) and the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).
Norway is home to 2 species of Eagle, the Golden Eagle and the White-tailed Eagle, however it is the Golden Eagle that we will be focussing on photographing on this tour.
Golden Eagles are one of the largest birds of prey found across Europe, with a wingspan of up to 2 metres and weighing around 4 kilograms, they are a majestic and impressive raptor. Seeing Golden Eagles at such close quarters, enables you to appreciate just how beautiful their plumage is, with golden feather mottling across the wings and a light brown/golden head, its easy to see where their name derives from.
The purpose built hides are situated in the rural municipality surrounding Marnardal, where we will have exclusive access in order to maximise opportunities to capture these awe inspiring raptors. Both species are incredibly difficult to photograph without this type of ‘baited hide’ setup - the bait used is all naturally occurring road kill. Golden Eagles, particularly juvenile birds, will naturally feed on carrion (dead meat) during the winter months to supplement their diet.
There are few better places to photograph Golden Eagle and Goshawk, than on the edge of Scandinavian pine forests.
It may also be possible to photograph other, smaller bird species such as Raven, Jay, Great-spotted Woodpecker, varied Tit species including the Crested Tit, Bullfinch and Greenfinch, but as with all wildlife - there is never a guarantee.
HIGHLIGHTS
Photographing Golden Eagles in the snow in Norway is a truly breathtaking experience. The stark contrast of the majestic eagles against the pristine white landscape creates a dramatic and unforgettable scene. Norway's winter wilderness offers a unique opportunity to capture these powerful birds in their natural habitat, soaring over snow-covered forests. The cold, crisp air adds to the intensity of the moment, while the soft light of the northern winter enhances every detail of their feathers and sharp gaze. It's an adventure that combines patience, skill, and an appreciation for the beauty of wildlife in its purest form.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
Your chosen camera setup.
A focal length of 300mm/400mm is preferable for both hides (the flexibility of a zoom is good).
Spare memory cards and batteries.
The hide provides hide plates, but a gimbal/fluid head or equivalent is required.
Warm clothing (the temperatures can be extremely low at this time of year) and durable, supportive foot wear such as walking boots/shoes.
Waterproofs and gaiters may be required to walk to the hides!
A head torch is recommended as we enter and exit the hides under the cover of darkness.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
All transfers from/to Kristiansand Airport.
Accommodation on a 5 night basis.
4x full days in purpose built, heated hides.
Daily transport from/to the Hides.
Host/Guide.
We will be on hand to discuss camera setting etc. for each setup/scenario.
Breakfast, packed lunch & evening meal are included in the price - We have full use of kitchen facilities and usually cook as a group together.
Evening editing sessions to go through images.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Travel to and from Norway (suggested flights will be communicated upon booking)
Alcoholic drinks
Snacks & sundries
Travel or equipment insurance
Camera equipment
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Travel to Norway, we will meet at the airport in Kristiansand and transfer to our accommodation.
Day 2 to 5 - We will spend all daylight hours in the hides. We will choose between the 2 available hides depending on species success.
Day 6 - After breakfast we will be transferred back to Kristiansand Airport to travel home from Norway.
NOTES
A walk of 25 minutes (500m) is required to reach the Forest Hide.
A walk of 10 minutes (200m) is required to reach the Field Hide.
We will spend all day in each hide as we are required to enter and leave under darkness in order to minimise disturbance.
DATES
22nd - 26th January 2025 (FULLY BOOKED)
20th - 25th January 2026 BOOK NOW
PRICE
£2,050 twin room
Deposit - A non-refundable deposit of £500 is required when booking. The balance will be required 60 days before the trip.
