The Depth of Field Series:

Bialowieza: On the Trail of European Megafauna

February 4 - 11, 2024

Poland’s Białowieża National Park is home to some of Eurasia’s most stunning wildlife: wolf, moose, red deer, wild boar, and the iconic European bison. This treasured forest has remained since its post-glacial return over 8,000 years ago. Join us on the trail with European megafauna...

WINTER WILDLIFE

Throughout our week, we take advantage of the winter conditions by following the trails of wildlife, exposing & opening us to the life of the wilderness. Moving along the trail quietly, we disturb less, and we see more. Though focused on the larger animals, we also look to connect with such charismatic mammals as pine marten, polecat, European lynx, raccoon dog, badger, fish otter, roe deer, and many more.

EXPERT TRACKING INSTRUCTION

Through tracking, trailing, and nature observation practices we gain insights and connection to all wildlife. We will find and follow the trails of Eurasian megafauna as well as the smaller species of Białowieza Forest. By observing tracks, sign, weather, and animal communications we learn about the animals’ lives and how to view them seamlessly -reducing our disturbance and increasing our sensitivity.

RICH ECOLOGY & NATURAL HISTORY

Because wildlife can never be experienced in a vacuum, we pay keen attention to the rich ecology at our fingertips. From trees to geology, to human history, we experience the full essence of this unique land. This trip includes an excellent full-day locally-guided ecology tour within the most restricted borders of Białowieza National Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

NOURISHING ATMOSPHERE

Cold field sessions in the winter wilderness are complimented by cozy lodgings in the town of Białowieza. We stay in a beautiful historic house, appreciating the human and cultural history as well as that of the wild places. Our sessions begin with the occasional dawn wake-up and heading out into the cold morning to either scout for traces of last night’s animal movements or sit still as the sun rises, hoping to catch the ever-ephemeral view of bison moving into the meadows. After a pause for a stunning Polish breakfast, we spend the rest of our day afield seeking out and following wildlife trails in hopes of discovering new signs and viewing animals in the forest. As the skies darken we return to a hearty dinner. Evenings may be spent researching the day’s natural mysteries, storytelling, writing, as well as simply relaxing. For aches and sore bodies, there is a Russian sauna available on site (one evening is complementary).

TRANSPORTATION

Ground transportation from Warsaw Airport (WAW) to Białowieza is included in the trip cost.

Offerings include but are not limited to:

• Track & Sign Interpretation

• Trailing: the art of following the animal’s path

• Entry to the Białowieża Natural-Forest Museum

• Exploring park, cultural, and ecological confluence

• A locally-guided tour of the old growth forest, focusing on ecology and reading the forested landscape

• Animal communication & interpretation

• Birding & bird language

• Traditional Russian sauna

Payment

The trip cost is $1395, airfare not included.  Registrations & payments are due by Novembeer 1, 2023. To pay in-full is also an option.