Who knew? The ground squirrels of Vienna Austria are famous for their cuteness, and one man’s shots are all the proof you’re going to need.
Photographer Dick van Duijn from the Netherlands, says that he went to Vienna specifically to photograph the adorable ground squirrels. He spent about two hours in the park with them, and took more than 200 shots in total, just to nab a few that were solid gold. The squirrel is pictured going from flower to flower, looking for the best-tasting bloom. He is seemingly entranced by their beauty, each one captivating him for a moment before carrying on in search of the perfect bloom. With an expression of total bliss he inhales from each flower, and upon finding the one that would be lunch, he chowed down, the photographer said.
The photos he ended up with are so sweet! Though the squirrel’s really just looking for a bite to eat, he seems to be experiencing each flower as though it is some sort of miracle to behold, a thing to be treasured. He really seems smitten, and it’s hard not to love the little guy. (1)
An Awestruck Squirrel, Sly Foxes, And Wild Selfies
Wildlife photographers have a pretty amazing job. Though there is often a lot of waiting involved, and you have to take hundreds of shots in order to come away with a couple of usable ones, the perks are pretty great too. Finding ways to blend in, becoming like that proverbial fly on the wall, is a VIP pass to a view of nature that most people don’t get to see. Is there anything more adorable than a fluffy little fox who climbs up on your shoulder for a closer view of what’s happening? Or the baby wildcat that thinks a head of hair is a fine place to play? (2) Have you seen the gorillas who strike a pose with park rangers? They look like their band is about the drop the hottest album of all time, and you’re going to want to buy it. (3)
The Shot Of A Lifetime
Nothing says “I’ve been here a while” like a baby seal resting comfortably atop your back, so it’s clear this animal photography business involves plenty of patience. But the payoff is spectacular, whether it’s a funny, graceful, powerful, or gorgeous photograph. Almost guaranteed to be more impressive than even the most lovely human portrait. Why is that? Why do we love wildlife photography so much?
Probably because of that “wild animal wildcard”. You never really know what you’re going to get. Mr. van Duijn could have spent those two hours at the park and come away with nothing to show for his time and effort. No awestruck squirrels, just mildly enthusiastic ones. Those gorillas could not have posed any better for that selfie; there is an intelligence about their posture… they’ve been watching. That’s the wildcard.
Hats off to all the wildlife photographers out there! You possess the patience and the eye for work that brings joy and wonder to all of us. Kind of like that sweet little squirrel and his miracle flower.
