Why does wildlife programming seem to mainly feature men out in the wild facing the elements and capturing intense moments, which of course can be dangerous? There are sadly very few professional female wildlife photographers. But we are out there taking risks, battling the elements, and facing danger.
Nature shows us that it is females leading the way. Elephant herds are led by matriarchs. They lead the herd in times of drought to water holes – the information being passed down from mother to daughter for generations. Lionesses are the main hunters in the pride, they work hard to protect food for their family as well as take care of the cubs. African wild dogs are also led by an alpha female: she will mate with her chosen male and then create a lasting dynasty.
In my travels, I have lived in many remote cultures, where women are the backbone of the culture-building their own houses, providing their own food, and taking care of family life. The world needs to see and hear from strong independent women making a difference and being fearless and bold. Nashipae Wilde, Kenya
PAUL MCGUINNESS REPLIES:
I couldn’t agree more, Nashipae. Melissa’s article raised a number of interesting points. It’s been one of the most popular articles on our website, so any readers who missed it, I recommend checking it out online. It’s worth noting that we’re very keen to hear from more women wildlife photographers here at BBC Wildlife, so any female snappers out there, please do get in touch and share your photos.
Tickled by tapirs
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Denne historien er fra July 2022-utgaven av BBC Wildlife.
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SNAP-CHAT
Justin Gilligan on giant spider crabs and holding hands with an octopus
STEPPE CHANGE
Herds of saiga have returned to Kazakhstan, but there's a fine balance to tread
TREES FOR LIFE
Community is at the heart of conservation in the tropical forests of southern Belize
WHEN DOVES CRY
Turtle doves are now the UK's fastest declining bird species, but the RSPB is on a mission to save them
SURVIVAL OF THE CUTEST
We can't help being drawn to cute creatures, but our aesthetic preferences both help and hinder conservation
LIGHT ON THE NORTH
Spectacular images of Arctic foxes, reindeer and musk oxen reveal the wild beauty and diversity of Scandinavia
ROLLING IN THE DEEP
The super-sized crustacean that lives in the deepest, darkest ocean
LET'S GET TOGETHER
Clay licks deep in the Amazon explode in a riot of colour, with macaws the stars of the show
FEMALE OF THE SPECIES
To sponge or not to sponge? That is the question for the bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) living in Shark Bay, Western Australia.
7 nature encounters for the month ahead
WITH NATURALIST AND AUTHOR BEN HOARE
