Description

The majestic Dalmatian Pelicans of lake Kerkini in northern Greece have become an iconic subject within European bird species. These large and impressive water birds have all the characteristics of a great photographic subject being both visually impressive and highly tolerant to being approached. The local fisherman on the lake, have a long history of working alongside the birds, and this provides superb opportunities for images at very close quarters. Our ‘Winter Pelican’ trips offer the chance for expert guided access in small and friendly groups to see these amazing birds, resulting in memorable images for everyone attending.

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After arrival at Sofia airport, we will be met by our expert local guide and then transferred south by minibus to the town of Kerkini in northern Greece. We will spend four nights in a small family run hotel and use this base to explore the water birds of the surrounding area. The accommodation for the trip is offered on a single occupancy, full board (as specified) basis for the convenience and comfort of our guests.

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Our key target species for the whole trip will be Dalmatian Pelicans, which can be photographed at close quarters from both the shore and a specially adapted boat. Each day we will have the services of both a local nature guide and an expert boatman to take us right out into the lake, for the best possible locations for the birds. We will also be able to feed the Pelicans fish to entice them into the best positions for pictures. This will hopefully enable us to capture some stunning close range, low angle images of these magnificent birds in groups on the water.

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The intention would be to make the most of the available light, not only reaching the lakeshore as the sun is rising, but also considering the weather and cloud cover for the best locations for the remainder of the day. Early morning conditions can be superb with the chance of no wind, calm water and rising mist, complemented by the snow-capped mountains in the background of the images.

We will also be able to use the local guides experience to find the best positions to capture pictures from the lakeshore. This provides the chance of laying right at the water’s edge and capturing ‘eye level’ images of the birds as they swim towards us.

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During the full three days of photography, we also hope to see White Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Greater Flamingo, Great Egret and various waterfowl.

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On the morning of day five, we will be transferred back to Sophia airport for the return flights to the UK.

 

This trip is a great chance to capture superb images of a spectacular European bird species and the small group size combined with expert tuition and guidance should ensure everyone makes the most of these opportunities. As always, the UK based Wild Arena photography guide will be on hand throughout the trip to assist with the challenges of getting the best from our cameras and we pride ourselves on running inclusive, friendly and informative trips.

 

Key subjects for the week should include:

Dalmatian Pelicans are the key subject, but we also hope to see White Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Greater Flamingo, Great Egret and various waterfowl.