Fox Hide Photography
Mr Fox isn’t the easiest of creatures to photograph, especially if they are country born and bred, so fox hide photography can be the answer.
Away from city lights they are shy and extremely reclusive, enjoying the peace and quiet of farmland or woodland. At the Farm we are lucky enough to have two resident fox dens and we have the wonderful experience of sharing the space with them.
They are extremely dark in colour and very healthy. We have a no kill policy on the 120 acres establishment and whilst our chickens are free range (day time only) we are careful to lock them up securely at night.
But is it the fault of the Fox if they find a way in – or course not – it means I haven’t done a good enough job of caring for the chicken flock.
As of todays date, no chicken, pet rabbit or guinea pig has been harmed, but we know they check. Each morning we find fresh fox poop at the entrance to each chicken run and next to the rabbit hutches. A warning message if you like, proclaiming “We are watching and We are waiting”!
The Fox Photography Hide
I set the fox photography hide up at the back end of April, close enough to the den for a decent photographic view but far enough away to not scare off the vixen and her cubs.
It’s been an absolute pleasure and privilege watching and photographing them as they grow up, from young innocent, curious babies to stunningly beautiful but wary teenagers.
I occasionally put a few peanuts down, however never enough that the foxes become dependent on the food. I see it as a small “thank you” for letting me get close enough to share a small part of their foxy day with me.
The foxes hear my whistle and within 30 minutes out they pop for a peanut feast, almost smiling at the camera – or so it seems.
The Gear
I use a Nikon D5 and a 500mm lens, its a wonderful bit of kit and produces beautifully sharp images with little noise even at high IOS – often required when waiting for our nocturnal fox friends to make an appearance.
If you fancy having a go at some fox hide photography or would like a 1-1 photography session, please do get in touch or you can read more here.
All the proceeds are donated to the Lorica Trust, the charity that runs East Clayton Farm.
