Bulgaria November 2008

In November 2008, I took a group of photographers to Bulgaria on a Vultures and Eagles trip identical to the one planned for 2009 - full details here.  The trip gave opportunities to photograph Golden Eagles in their mountain environment (thanks to guest Mike Ashton for the image opposite - he had the best day out of all guests)  along with the chance to appreciate the work of the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds as they support the small and endangered Griffon Vulture colony to be found close to the Greek border.  With a first hint of winter giving the chance for a succesful days snowy passerine photography with gems like Tree Sparrows comparatively common here, the trip was full of variety and enjoyed by all:

"Overall the trip exceeded my expectations..I enjoyed seeing and photographing everything: couldn't have hoped for better guides" 

"Photographing the Golden Eagles was unforgetable - the whole trip was like being with a group of friends"

For me personally, photographing the Griffon Vultures was an extraordinary experience and I had to pinch myself to remember I was in Europe.  I've put a separate slideshow together of some of my favourite images of them too:

Griffon Vulture Slideshow

Can't wait for the 2009 trip already!

Mark