Shooting Squirrels, tips please

davidbridges

davidbridges

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David Bridges
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Hi all,

I woke up at 8 o clock and went up to the small wood near my house. I had never seen anything like it. So many squirrels searching the leaves for food and thats all that could be heard at the time. Unfortunately they are grey and i live in Northumberland so its not good news but they are squirrels none the less. My pictures failed today not because of light or motion blur its because i could never get one in the frame. I could see a squirrel in one area so i assumed that if i go in that area settle down and wait it will be back again... well no. I couldnt understand why they seemed to rummage around everywhere but where i moved to. Are there any tips is can use for getting close or building trust between me and the squirrels. All tips are welcome.

Dave

P.S ive got a camouflage jacket that i didnt wear today but i am going to take tomorrow. Will it help due to all the orange autumn colours ?
 
The easy way is to find a local park where the squirrels are used to being fed, then you can snap away with a macro lens ;)

Otherwise, you'll need to go back for several mornings and always sit in the same place until they get used to you being there with nothing bad happening. Might be worth firing the shutter from time to time as well so they get used to the noise.
 
The easy way is to find a local park where the squirrels are used to being fed, then you can snap away with a macro lens
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Botanical gardens in durham ? I think i may be going tomorrow but with family, anybody know anything about it ?
 
I found it hard to get shots of squirrels, mind you, I have only had my camera for a few days.

I couldn't get close enough with my 18-55mm. When I tried to get closer - walking towards them very slowly and making as little noise as possible, they would still run away. What lens will you be using? Make sure you have something with a decent zoom.
 
Basically what has already been said, you have to keep going back [take flask of coffee, sandwiches, etc] and be very patient, or for quicker results, try a local park where they are much more used to human company, especially parks where there is an outdoor cafe area.
 
Advice on shooting squirrels? Don't miss, and good luck?

Can't stand tree rats. I get a lot in my garden, and they're very annoying!

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What lens will you be using? Make sure you have something with a decent zoom.

90 - 300 mm, should be ok.

I will just keep trying.
 
I was at the NT property in Formby last year. This is an island of red squirrels. These animals a relatively tame and peanuts are just the bribe you need to bring them out.

I used my 100-400 lens to get some real close ups, but you do need to be patient. best to go mid week if you can not so many other people around. Only problem with the site is that it is heavily wooded so light is at a premium.

If you get fed up with shooting the squirrels then there is some superb coastline to photograph. Wrap up warm though it can get very cold
 
Ive got Wallington Hall on my doorstep (10 miles ish) with a animal hide which has red squirrels frequently visiting. I would just like to be able to go to a place that is a 5 minute walk and get some nice shots.

Thanks for all the help so far :)

Dave
 
put a bird-feeder up in your garden
label it "no squirrels"
stand back
take pics!
 
Its the same with all wildlife togging patience and a little bit of luck and you'll get what you are after. Keep trying and you'll get some good photos
 
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