SNAP-CHAT

Richard Birchett on magical merlins, wily coyotes and charging deer

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How did your career in wildlife photography start?

When I was ten years old. Having always been a keen naturalist and birdwatcher, photography became a natural progression of my passion for the outdoors. I wanted to capture lasting memories that reflected my experiences in nature.

Which of your wildlife images has meant the most to you?

A hen harrier in the Cairngorms mountains. Photographing this iconic yet increasingly rare species in such a wild and dramatic landscape was truly special. Watching this male “grey ghost” hunt gracefully across the moorland was an unforgettable experience.

What has been your most memorable encounter with wildlife?

My first close meeting with a black bear in Algonquin Provincial Park, Canada. I was walking along a trail and suddenly we came face to face. We both froze for a moment. The bear then calmly moved back into cover. I didn’t take a single photo, but that quiet, powerful exchange remains one of the most unforgettable moments of my life.

You've worked in the military, with a specialism in survival. How has this helped you as a wildlife photographer?