Top 7 Locations to go for wildlife photography tours in the USA

For wildlife photography enthusiasts, the United States offers a wealth of breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems teeming with fascinating creatures. Embark on an unforgettable journey with wildlife photography tours in the USA, capturing nature’s splendour in these seven top destinations. Each location provides unique opportunities to photograph various animals, including rare and special species. Let’s dive into what makes these places a must-visit for aspiring or seasoned wildlife photographers.

1. Colorado

Why Go There?

Colorado’s diverse landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to sprawling plains, offer a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. The state’s national parks and wildlife reserves provide a haven for numerous animal species, making it a prime destination for photographers.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

Colorado offers opportunities to photograph majestic elk, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. The higher altitudes are home to mountain goats and marmots, while the plains and forests are inhabited by black bears, pronghorns, and coyotes. Bird enthusiasts can capture images of golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and the colourful western tanager.

Special Species:

One of Colorado’s standout species is the American pika, a small mammal that lives among the rocky talus slopes. Additionally, the state is a great place to spot and photograph the elusive lynx, especially in the San Juan and Southern Rockies.

2. Alaska

Why Go There?

Alaska’s vast wilderness and remote locations make it an unparalleled destination for wildlife photography tours in the USA. Its pristine environments and rugged landscapes are perfect for capturing dramatic wildlife scenes.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

Alaska is a paradise for photographers looking to capture brown bears fishing for salmon, majestic bald eagles, and massive moose. The coastal areas are perfect for spotting sea otters, orcas, and humpback whales. Bird enthusiasts can find puffins, gyrfalcons, and snowy owls.

Special Species:

Photographers can aim to capture the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights over the snowy habitat of the Arctic fox. Alaska also offers opportunities to photograph the rare and majestic polar bear in its natural habitat.

3. Texas

Why Go There?

Texas offers diverse habitats ranging from deserts to coastal marshes, making it a hotspot for varied wildlife photography. The vast state has numerous protected areas and wildlife refuges, offering ample opportunities to explore and capture stunning wildlife images.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

In Texas, photographers can capture the grandeur of white-tailed deer, armadillos, and bobcats. The wetlands and coastal areas are great for spotting alligators, roseate spoonbills, and whooping cranes. Bird photographers will also find green jays, scissor-tailed flycatchers, and painted buntings.

Special Species:

The Rio Grande Valley is renowned for its birding opportunities, where you can photograph the vibrant green jay and the colorful Altamira oriole. The endangered ocelot can also be found in the dense brushlands of South Texas, offering a rare photographic opportunity.

4. Mexico

Why Go There?

While not part of the USA, Mexico’s proximity and shared ecosystems with southern states make it a valuable addition to this list. Its diverse environments, from tropical forests to arid deserts, provide a rich array of wildlife.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

Mexico’s varied habitats are home to jaguars, howler monkeys, and the magnificent American flamingo. The country’s coastal regions offer sea turtles, whale sharks, and dolphin sightings. Bird photographers will find an array of species, including quetzals, macaws, and hummingbirds.

Special Species:

The Yucatán Peninsula is particularly special for its birdlife, including the vibrant keel-billed toucan and the striking turquoise-browed motmot. The monarch butterfly migration in the highland forests is a spectacular event worth capturing.

5. Arizona

Why Go There?

Arizona’s unique desert landscapes and diverse climates create an intriguing environment for wildlife photography. The state’s national parks and wildlife refuges are teeming with species adapted to the arid conditions.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

You can photograph desert bighorn sheep, javelinas, and the iconic roadrunner in Arizona. The state is also home to reptiles such as Gila monsters and rattlesnake species. Bird enthusiasts can capture images of cactus wrens, Gila woodpeckers, and the rare elegant trogon.

Special Species:

The Saguaro National Park provides a backdrop for capturing the rare and elusive Sonoran pronghorn. The Grand Canyon area is a fantastic spot to photograph the majestic California condor, one of the rarest birds in North America.

6. Colombia

Why Go There?

Similar to Mexico, Colombia’s inclusion is due to its close ecological ties and shared species with parts of the USA. Colombia’s lush rainforests, high-altitude Andes, and extensive coastlines make it a biodiversity hotspot.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

Colombia is home to spectacled bears, capybaras, and the enchanting pink river dolphin. The country’s varied habitats also host tapirs, jaguars, and primates. Bird photographers will find paradise with species like the Andean cock-of-the-rock, tanagers, and hummingbirds.

Special Species:

Colombia is a paradise for birdwatchers. Photographers can photograph the Andean condor and the striking quetzal. The country also offers the unique opportunity to capture the blue morpho butterfly in its natural rainforest habitat.

7. Washington

Why Go There?

Washington state’s varied ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to coastal regions and mountainous areas, provide a rich environment for wildlife photography. Its numerous national parks and wildlife refuges are ideal for capturing diverse species.

Animals and Birds to Click: 

You can photograph black bears, Roosevelt elk, and mountain goats in Washington. The coastal areas are perfect for spotting orcas, sea lions, and harbour seals. Bird enthusiasts can capture bald eagles, marbled murrelets, and great blue herons.

Special Species:

The Olympic National Park is a prime location for capturing the unique and elusive Olympic marmot found only in this region. The San Juan Islands offer an unparalleled opportunity to photograph the endangered Southern Resident killer whales.

Conclusion

Embarking on wildlife photography tours in the USA allows photographers to explore and document the country’s incredible biodiversity. Whether it’s the alpine meadows of Colorado, the remote wilderness of Alaska, the deserts of Arizona, or the coastal beauty of Washington, each destination offers unique opportunities to capture stunning images of wildlife. Mexico and Colombia add a layer of biodiversity, enriching these tours. So pack your camera gear and travel to these top locations for an unforgettable wildlife photography experience.