North Yorkshire Wildlife Photography: A Journey with J P Watson Photography

Welcome to the first instalment of the J P Watson Photography blog 2025! Based in the heart of North Yorkshire, I’m thrilled to share my passion for wildlife and nature photography with you. North Yorkshire is a haven for diverse habitats, teeming with wildlife—from the rolling dales and rugged moorlands to its ancient woodlands and dramatic coastline. Through this blog, I’ll take you behind the lens to showcase this stunning region’s incredible wildlife and natural beauty.

The Wild Heart of North Yorkshire 

North Yorkshire is one of the UK’s most picturesque counties, boasting two National Parks: the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. These areas are home to an incredible array of wildlife. Whether it’s the haunting cry of a curlew over the moors or the fluttering of a red admiral butterfly along a woodland trail. Altogether, every moment feels like a connection to the wild.

Some of my favourite wildlife hotspots also include:

1. RSPB Bempton Cliffs: A paradise for seabird enthusiasts, where puffins, gannets, and guillemots nest along the dramatic chalk cliffs.
2. Staveley Nature Reserve: A tranquil setting swarming with roe deer, badgers, and abundant birdlife.
3. Studley Royal Deerpark: A magical place to capture river life, from dippers to the elusive otter. As well as three varieties of deer and much more.

Behind the Lens: Capturing Wildlife in Their Element

Wildlife photography is as much about patience and respect as it is about skill. Every image I capture tells a story of the natural world moments of survival, beauty, and resilience. My approach is simple: blend into the landscape and let nature unfold around me.

Winter Wildlife in Focus

Winter in North Yorkshire transforms the landscape into a frost-kissed wonderland, Also offering unique photographic opportunities. Frosty mornings in the Dales often reveal red grouse perched proudly on snow-dusted heather, while the coastline is visited by overwintering shorebirds like turnstones and purple sandpipers.

Top tips for winter wildlife photography:

• Be prepared: Layers, hand warmers, and waterproofs are your best friends in the unpredictable Yorkshire weather.
• Focus on light: The low winter sun creates warm, golden hues perfect for adding depth to your shots.
• Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance to avoid causing stress, especially during harsher winter months.

Why Choose North Yorkshire for Your Next Adventure?

The beauty of North Yorkshire lies not just in its wildlife but in the serene escape it offers. Whether you’re an aspiring wildlife photographer or a nature enthusiast, this region inspires a deep connection to the natural world.

Through J P Watson Photography, I aim to showcase this enchanting corner of England while inspiring others to explore and protect the wildlife we’re so lucky to have.

For Updates with our North Yorkshire Wildlife Photography

If you’re as passionate about wildlife and nature as we are, I’d love to hear from you! Follow J P Watson Photography on social media, Facebook, Instagram, and Flickr or Website for regular updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories. Together, let’s celebrate the wild beauty of North Yorkshire and beyond.

Our images are available to purchase at our webshop.

J P Watson Photography