Wildlife Archives - Eckart Mayer Photography

Dassie blossom lookout

This cute dassie seems to have its eyes firmly fixed on the yellow blossom of the nearby shrub. Whilst pretty close to the edge of the ravine, it seems inaccessible without risking its life. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-03)

On the beach with a smile

This poor fish stranded and died on a sandy beach in the Tamsui area. Despite of this misfortune, it still seems to smile at everyone walking by. Somehow sad! (Taipei, Taiwan, January 2013 - Image ID: 201301-TW-06)

City Wildlife

Even within the densly populated greater Taipei area, nature still has its places of refuge. Many public parks with lakes and ponds of all shapes and sizes provide home to a number of birds. (Taipei, Taiwan, January 2013 - Image ID: 201301-TW-01)

Siesta time

Shortly before our departure from South Africa, we revisited the lion breeding and conservation center. Once again, the youngsters were the main attraction, like this cub taking a short rest. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-17)

Angry elephants

Even though the ranger had stopped the game drive vehicle some time ago, the elephants clearly didn't enjoy our presence. This mother and its calf quickly approached and challenged us, before following the rest of the herd. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-07)

Little paw

Just adorable: the paw from this lion cub is still small, but will grow together with its owner, and become a dangerous hunting weapon in the future. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-18)

Trouble ahead

Despite of having enjoyed a relaxing bath in the mud, these two rhinos seem to have an issue with each other. Standing head to head, their feet properly aligned and ready to attack indicantes some trouble ahead. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-16)

Mudbath, together!

After a hot and dry day out in the bush, these two rhinos are having a blast, enjoying a rejuvenating mudbath together. Animal spa at its'best! (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-14)

Rhino outdoor spa

A group of rhinos wraps up a hot day in their animal spa. The refreshing mudbath also protects their skin against sun and insects. Collective happiness! (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-15)

Here I come

During a guided walk with two lions, we had the chance for close encounters with these still young predators. They ran around, disappeared in the high grass and bushes, or up on a tree, just to suddenly and quickly reappear. A quite unusual and somehow scary experience, for adults only. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-20)

Wrong species

Well, this tiger didn't really fit into the lion research and conservation center. However, walking through the high grass, this majestic animal was so beautiful that I had to take a few photos. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-19)

Lions don't climb trees !?

Whilst not as agile in climbing as leopards, lions can very well make a move up a tree. This one just quickly jumped up, took a look around and then came down as quickly as it went up. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-21)

Lion King

Impressive and beautiful at the same time: encounters with large male lions tends to create goosebumps. Especially when you have a chance to look him directly into the eyes, even from a safe distance. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-08)

Deceptive tranquility

Looking at the pack of lions resting in the grass creates an impression of peace and tranquility. However, I was glad to sit in an offroad vehicle rather than "walking into them" by accident. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-10)

The look

The golden fur was nicely shining in the afternoon sun whilst we observed a pack of lions resting in the high green grass. This lioness gave us quite a penetrating view. Hungry? (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-09

What a treat !

This buffalo seems to have the time of his life, or at least of the day. Cooling down in the refresting water of a small pond creates this special "Wow". An complimentary tooth-cleaning on top wouldn't hurt... (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-12)

Male buffalo rear view...

I somehow couldn't resist to take this photo. Not sure if this rear-view image of a huge buffalo would require a "nudity - warning"? (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-13)

Two horns

Guarded game reserves offer good protection for the endangered rhinos from poaching. Observing these huge herbivores feeding on the juicy grass is quite relaxing. The low-standing late-afternoon sun provided a beautiful warm light. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-01)

Single-eyed leopard

Not sure what caused this leopard to loose its sight on the right eye. For predators, such injuries make it a lot more difficult to hunt successfully and to survive. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-06)

Mother and child rearview

Even from behind, rhinos look as impressive as they are. These two were happily grazing, and didn't do me the favor to turn around. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-05)

Grey Lourie

A fascinating feather-crown on its head makes this parrot-like bird a rather interesting sight. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-04)

Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill

Bird-watching requires patience, or a certain amount of luck. In this case, it was the 2nd option that provided me with this unexpected photo opportunity. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-03)

Family outing

Good news for all fans of the black swan series: there are a few more pics available, taken a month later. Carefully guarded the youngster explore their pond and improve their swimming skills. (Centurion, South Africa, November 2012 - Image ID 201211-SA-01)

Hide and Seek

Threesome

Apart from the black swan family, other animals also call the small pond their home, and sometimes they get pretty close to each other. Yet, all very peaceful and relaxed. (Centurion, South Africa, November 2012 - Image ID 201211-SA-03)

Tourist attraction - so what ?

Whilst the Unesco World Heritage Side can get quite busy even during low season, these sheep enjoy their afternoon feast. A very relaxing scenery... (France, Mont Saint Michel, October 2022 - Image ID 202210-FR-28)

Seagull portrait

Walking around the high city walls of Saint Malo, I spotted this seagull taking a rest in the afternoon sun. Fortunately, I quickly took a portrait snapshot with my iPhone, before another tourist chased her away. (France, Saint Malo, October 2022 - Image ID 202210-FR-13)

Proud parent

Good news for all fans of the black swan couple: more family members are underway! Carefully protected by their parents, only the white feathers are clear evidence of their presence. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-06)

Swan Silhouette

The main attraction of the lake: Black swans are always an attractive photo model. This one perfectly posed in front of the bicolored light reflections of the lake. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-05)

Paddling circle

Swiming back towards me, this duck paddles in a small circle of greyish blue, a reflection from the sky above us. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-04)

Ducktales

Luckily, the small lake also host a number of regular tenants, such as these two ducks that enjoy their later afternoon swim in the warming sun. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-02)

Close elk encounter

On the way from Breesgard to Trondheim, we spotted one of the iconic animals of the North, an elk. Without thinking too much, I stepped out of the car and walked as close as necessary to take this photo. Maybe not such a smart idea..., they are huge! (Breesgard, Norway, July 1992 - Image ID 199207-NO-07)

Lion Cub Explorer

Encounter at the "Ukutula Conservation Center", best known for its lion breeding program. And as small and cute as this lion cub may be: even as a baby it is not comparable to a domestic cat... (Ukutula Conservation Center, South Africa, May 2012 - Image ID: 201205-ZA-01)

Green lizzard on a large green leaf

Here it is again, this time seen from above. Amazing different shades of green... (Vallee de Mai, Seychelles, June 2012 - Image ID: 201206-SC-06)

Lizzard walking on a colourful transparent leaf

Whilst hiking in the "Vallee de Mai" Nature Reserve, I spotted a lizzard on this Autumn-coloured leaf. In order to do something different, I took the image from below against the sunlight. (Vallee de Mai, Seychelles, June 2012 - Image ID: 201206-SC-04)

Ostrich on the Beach

Quite an unsual sighting on the rocky shores near Cape Point. (Cape Peninsula, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-18)

Pied Kingfischer

Whilst I am not a professional nor passionate bird-watcher, taking this picture of a Pied Kingfisher felt quite special. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-13)

Herd of Elephant Approaching

No matter how many encounters, meeting these majestic animals in their natural habitat always remains a highlight that words can hardly describe. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-12)

Gnu Teenager Portrait

Gnu teenager with its very unique hairstyle (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-11)

Hippo Exiting Swimming Pool

Expect the unexpected! On safaris, great moments can happen anytime. One morning we discovered an unusual pool visitor; a professional when it comes to swimming and diving. Not so great for the service team, they had a massive cleaning to do before reopening the pool. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-10)

Zebra Motherhood!

Providing a healthy breakfast for her little ones, whilst being on constant watch for potential danger (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-09)

Elephant enjoying fresh long grass

"Tea-Time": a fresh grass afternoon snack, apparently delicious (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-08)

Elephant's telescope

An elephant's trunk: probably one of the most amazing and versatile "tools" in animal kingdom? (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-07)

Impala youngster drinking mother's milk

As peaceful as this scene may look, mother Impala must stay on high alert for potential predators while her little one enjoys breakfast. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-05)

Wildebeest (Gnu) Workout

Pure joy: young Wildebeest exploring its' surroundings and the passion for speed. Which might be needed soon, when it has to escape from one of the many predators around... (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-04)

Graceful Beauty on the Rocks

It doesn't always have to be one of the Big Five. Observing the graceful elegance of antelopes is also quite fulfilling, especially when the roam around in such an amazing landscape. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-03)

Zebra Toddler Afternoon

Zebra toddler enjoying the beautiful afternoon sun in the grasslands (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-02)

Weaverbird in Action!

I find it equally beautiful and fascinating to observe this master-builder whilst constructing and continuously "renovating" it home, made entirely from natural resources. We were lucky to host these amazing birds in our garden whilst living in South Africa. (Centurion, South Africa, January 2012 - Image ID: 201201-ZA-03)

Hadeda Ibis Wake-Up Call

As beautiful as it may be, this bird can be really annoying when it makes a lot of noise very early in the morning, sitting just on top of your bedroom on the roof. Especially since they are rather social birds, usually coming in large groups! (Centurion, South Africa, January 2012 - Image ID: 201201-ZA-02)

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