March Wildlife Spectacles: What to Photograph and Where to Go

As spring awakens, wildlife activity intensifies across various regions, offering exciting opportunities for nature and wildlife photographers. Whether you're in the UK, Europe, or beyond, March delivers breathtaking wildlife photography opportunities—from the mountain hare’s seasonal shift to brown hares boxing in open fields.

If you're planning a wildlife photography trip or want to capture epic moments in nature, here’s what to expect in March’s must-see wildlife spectacles.

1. Mountain Hares in Their Winter Whites (UK & Northern Europe)

Photograph their transition before their coats change

In Scotland’s Highlands, Norway, and Sweden, mountain hares are still dressed in their white winter coats, blending into snow-covered landscapes. But as March progresses, their fur transitions to brown, offering a fascinating contrast against the thawing landscape. Their playful interactions and speed make for exciting action shots.

📸 Photography Tips:
✔ Use a telephoto lens (400mm+ recommended) to maintain distance.
✔ Shoot during sunrise or golden hour for soft light and shadows.
✔ Low-angle shots create intimate perspectives while showcasing the environment.

Where to Go:

• Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
• Dovrefjell National Park, Norway
• Rondane National Park, Norway

• 2. Brown Hare Boxing Matches (UK & Europe)

"Mad as a March Hare" – Capture nature’s fiercest fighters

March is peak boxing season for brown hares, where females fend off persistent males in dramatic, fast-paced battles. This unique behavior happens mostly in open fields at dawn and dusk, providing dynamic action shots.

📸 Photography Tips:
✔ Fast shutter speed (1/2000s or faster) to freeze movement.
✔ Continuous autofocus (AF-C) mode to track unpredictable movements.
✔ Position yourself low to the ground for a more immersive composition.

Where to Go:

• Suffolk & Norfolk, UK
• The Netherlands (Oostvaardersplassen)
• Hungarian Grasslands

3. The Great Crested Grebe Courtship Dance (Europe & Asia)

Elegant waterbirds perform their "weed dance."

March is courtship season for great crested grebes, where pairs perform synchronized head movements and exchange aquatic plants in a stunning "weed dance." This elegant ritual is a must-see for wildlife photographers who love capturing birds in motion.

📸 Photography Tips:
✔ A telephoto lens (300mm+ recommended) keeps distance while ensuring detail.
✔ A fast shutter speed (1/1000s or faster) freezes movement.
✔ A low ISO and wide aperture (f/5.6-f/8) create dreamy bokeh.

Where to Go:

• RSPB Minsmere, UK
• Lake Kerkini, Greece
• Danube Delta, Romania

4. Emerging Adders (UK & Europe)

Capture reptiles basking in the first warm days of spring

Adders, the UK’s only venomous snake, emerge from hibernation in March, often basking in sunlit clearings. While these snakes are shy and avoid humans, photographers with patience can capture unique close-ups of their intricate patterns.

📸 Photography Tips:
✔ Use a telephoto or macro lens (100mm - 400mm for detail).
✔ Approach low and slow to avoid startling them.
✔ Be mindful—never disturb a basking snake for a shot.

Where to Go:

• New Forest, UK
• Surrey Heathlands, UK
• The Alps, France/Switzerland

5. Frogspawn and Amphibian Awakening (Wetlands & Woodlands Worldwide)

A macro photographer’s dream in early spring

As ponds and wetlands come alive, frogs and toads begin their breeding season. Frogspawn clusters create stunning macro compositions, while male frogs croaking at dawn make for engaging video and audio captures.

📸 Photography Tips:
✔ Polarizing filters reduce water glare for cleaner reflections.
✔ Shoot at eye level to create an immersive perspective.
✔ Use a fast shutter speed (1/500s or more) for action shots.

Where to Go:

• Norfolk Broads, UK
• Biebrza Marshes, Poland
• Pantanal Wetlands, Brazil

March Wildlife Photography Ethics & Best Practices

As wildlife photographers, it’s our responsibility to minimize disturbance while capturing these moments.

✔ Respect distances: Use long lenses (400mm+) instead of approaching wildlife.
✔ Avoid nesting areas & breeding sites: Wildlife is vulnerable in spring—be mindful.
✔ No baiting or calls: Always document animals in their natural behaviours.
✔ Leave no trace: Stick to paths, hides, or respectful vantage points.

Plan a Wildlife Photography Trip with Nature’s Nomads

At Nature’s Nomads, we specialise in small-group wildlife photography tours designed for photographers who want to capture extraordinary moments in untouched landscapes.

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