I was lucky to capture the majestic Golden Eagle with my camera in the breathtaking tapestry of autumn hues, where the plants were shining with warm oranges, fiery reds, and golden yellows.

Visit to Kuusamo Nature photo hides

In September, I had the opportunity to visit Kuusamo, a picturesque municipality nestled in the northern reaches of Finland. Kuusamo, located in the Northern Ostrobothnia region, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes. Surrounded by expansive forests and featuring an extensive network of hiking trails, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

During my visit, my primary goal was to capture the majestic Golden Eagle through my camera lens. Kuusamo Nature Photography offers a unique experience for wildlife photographers with photo hides available for rent. One particular day was dedicated to occupying one of these hides, providing an intimate glimpse into the lives of the local avian residents.

From the comfort of the hide, I was observing not only the magnificent Golden Eagles but also a fascinating array of other bird species, including Siperian Jays, Eurasian Jays, Willow Tits, Gray-headed Woodpeckers, Sparrow hawks, and Great Spotted Woodpeckers. It was a thrilling day filled with unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography.

The birds that graced us with their presence were drawn to the hides by the owners, who thoughtfully provided an assortment of food to attract and nourish these remarkable creatures. Given the predatory nature of Golden Eagles, their sustenance comprised meat, specifically Marten and Fox during our visit. It was a humbling experience to witness these apex predators up close and to capture their beauty and power through the lens of my camera.

Golden Eagle arriving to the hide

We arrived at the hide early in the morning. The weather was cloudy and there was heavy fog surrounding us. While we anticipated the arrival of the Golden Eagle, we understood the importance of remaining patient and quiet, as any loud voices or sudden movements might deter these sensitive birds from gracing us with their presence.

As we patiently waited for hours, the morning unfolded with a dense fog reducing visibility to a minimum. The atmosphere was shrouded in mystery, and the eagerness in the air was almost tangible.

Then, in the midst of this ethereal fog, a colossal dark figure materialized behind the veil of trees. It was the Golden Eagle, a magnificent sight, even in its fleeting passage. It soared with determination through the challenging winds, never faltering, before vanishing from our view. Yet, the mere glimpse of this majestic bird left us in awe, and a palpable sense of excitement filled the hide.

The morning fog began to dissipate as the day progressed, thanks to a strong wind that swept it away. The sun emerged from behind the clouds, casting a warm and gentle light upon the landscape adorned in the vibrant colors of autumn.

In the midst of this newfound clarity and beauty, the Golden Eagle made its grand entrance. It gracefully alighted upon a tree nearby, and we sat in hushed reverence. Memories of the previous autumn when the Golden Eagle had chosen to depart without partaking in the feast served as a reminder. Thus, this time, we remained as still and silent as possible, not wanting to disturb the Majesty and her delicate decision to dine with us.

The sheer exhilaration of being in close proximity to the Majestic Golden Eagle was overwhelming. In fact, we were privileged to share our hide with a pair of these magnificent birds, and they graced us with their presence for nearly three inspiring hours.

As we reluctantly departed from the hide, the setting sun cast a breathtaking golden hue across the landscape. It was as if the world itself was bathed in the same splendor that had drawn us to the presence of these regal eagles.

Thank you @kuusamonaturephotography for a memorable day!

More captivating Golden Eagle photos are on the horizon, including an incredible shot of a Golden Eagle feasting on a Marten. Stay tuned for these remarkable moments by following my blog. Your front-row seat to nature’s wonders awaits!