Wildlife Photography Subjects You Should Not Miss in the Sundarbans

The Sundarbans is one of the most interesting places for Wildlife Photographers. It also has a labyrinth of mangroves, tidal rivers, creeks and mudflats on which many more photographs can be captured than the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger. There are plenty of subject matter to capture, like the colourful birds, elusive reptiles, deer roaming through mangroves and much more.

If you are a photographer who is keen on a wildlife photography tour in the Sundarban Tiger Reserve, you should be aware of what you are looking for. Here are a few wildlife topics that you should avoid missing out on.

1. Royal Bengal Tiger

The Royal Bengal Tiger is definitely the most popular subject in the Sundarban. It's a memorable experience taking a photo of one in its natural mangrove habitat.

The dense vegetation of the Sundarbans makes it difficult for photographers to shoot tigers as opposed to open grassland environments. A shot through the mangroves, a walk along the riverbank-taking in the shot of a tiger or even a pair of alert eyes can make for an amazing photo.

2. Spotted Deer

The mammals in the Sundarbans are often seen, such as spotted deer (chital). They are wonderful to photograph thanks to their pretty markings.

See if you can take pictures of them as they eat, walk through the mangroves or stand by the water. Using early morning and late afternoon light can add depth and warmth to your photos.

3. Mangrove Birds

Photography of the birds is one of the highlights of the Sundarbans. Kingfishers, herons, egrets, eagles and storks are among the wetland birds that photographers may see, depending on the season and location.

4. Crocodiles

Saltwater crocodiles are frequently seen lying on muddy banks or partly in the water. Their skin is textured, they have strong jaws and prehistoric appearances make them interesting creatures.

Crocodiles are potentially dangerous and photographers should never try to go for a closer photo. It is safer and responsible to go with a longer lens.

5. Monitor Lizards

Water monitor lizards are also an interesting animal for wildlife photography. They can be spotted walking through bushes, climbing trees or looking for food around water bodies.

When photographed from a proper distance, they can provide some of the best close up photographs due to their unique patterns and behaviour.

6. Macaques

Rhesus macaques offer chances for taking shots of their behaviour and not just their portrait. Observe adult/young interactions, feeding patterns, grooming and tree movement.

7. Small Creatures And Mud Skippers

Don't miss the smallest residents of the mangroves! Animals such as mudskippers, crabs, insects and others can be interesting subjects.

8. The Mangrove Landscape

Not everything in the Sundarban is about wildlife. The story encompasses the environment.

Take A Picture Of The Story, Not Just The Animal!

The Sundarban is a place where the photographer can produce a full set of photographs. Though a tiger might be the dream subject, the birds, deer, crocodiles, reptiles, monkeys and mangrove landscape can be equally important.

Be patient and watch animal activity when on a Sundarbans wildlife tour, and have your camera on camera. The best picture doesn't necessarily have to be of the rarest animal.