A Tale of Curious Monkeys and a Photographer's Adventure
In the heart of India, a unique wildlife encounter unfolded, capturing the attention of both nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Nayan Khanolkar, a self-taught nature photographer, embarked on a journey to photograph tigers near Chandrapur, but little did he know, his path would cross with some mischievous langur monkeys.
These langurs, often seen in western India, especially in urban areas, have a special status in Hinduism, which grants them partial protection. However, their playful nature can sometimes lead to trouble, as they are known to raid crops and pester tourists for food.
The Unlikely Collaboration
Nayan's camera trap, intended for capturing tigers, became an unexpected attraction for the curious langurs. Before he could even activate it, they had already discovered his gear, dismantling it with their playful antics. This led to Nayan spending most of his time fixing equipment, watched over by the mischievous monkeys perched in the trees.
A Photographer's Mission
Nayan Khanolkar's passion for wildlife photography extends beyond capturing stunning images. He travels extensively across India, documenting its rich wildlife heritage for over two decades. His specialty lies in camera trap photography, and currently, he is focused on big cats in human-dominated landscapes.
Through his work, Nayan aims to educate and sensitize people about animal behavior, raising awareness about conservation efforts. His photographs serve as a powerful tool to connect people with nature and inspire a deeper appreciation for the wildlife that shares our world.
The Technical Details
- Camera: Nikon D90
- Lens: Tokina 11-16mm f2.8
- Settings: 1/200 at f11, ISO 200
- Additional Gear: Custom housing, Nikon SB-900 Speedlight flash, Cognisys motion sensor
- Location: Near Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India
A Unique Perspective
This image, captured by Nayan Khanolkar, offers a rare glimpse into the world of langur monkeys. It showcases their playful nature and their curious interaction with human technology. The photograph not only captures a moment of mischief but also highlights the delicate balance between wildlife and human activities.
And this is the part most people miss...
Nayan's work goes beyond just capturing beautiful images. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation and the need to protect our natural heritage. His photographs inspire us to appreciate and respect the wildlife that shares our planet.
Support Wildlife Conservation
By supporting initiatives like the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, hosted by the Natural History Museum, you contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and the preservation of our natural world. Your donations help nurture a global love for nature and ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and protect our wildlife heritage.
Explore More of Nayan's Work
- View all of Nayan Khanolkar's photographs: Link
- Winner: The Alley Cat
Donate and Make a Difference
Your support is crucial in harnessing the power of photography to create a positive impact. Donate now to contribute to scientific research, raise awareness, and foster a global community that values and protects nature.
