Animals

The expansive grounds of Kromeriz Park serve as a vibrant sanctuary for local wildlife, offering a rich tapestry of flora and fauna for the observant visitor. Among the most charismatic inhabitants of this historic landscape is the Eurasian jay (Garrulus glandarius), a bird whose striking plumage and intelligent behaviour make it a favourite for nature photographers and birdwatchers alike. During a recent autumn afternoon, one such jay was observed meticulously scouring the garden floor in a focused display of foraging.

On a quiet stretch of wetland in the village of Pritluky, in South Moravia, these photographs capture three complementary moments in the shared life of water and sky, revealing how different birds inhabit the same landscape in markedly different ways. The first two images focus on a mute swan gliding through shallow water coated with duckweed. In the opening scene, the swan moves calmly across the surface, its long neck held in a relaxed curve, white plumage contrasting softly with the green film below.

Captured against the stunning backdrop of the Nove Mlyny reservoirs in South Moravia, these images highlight the resilient spirit of the European Robin, known locally in the Czech Republic as the cervenka obecna. While this region is famous for its sprawling vineyards and the limestone peaks of the Palava Hills, the quiet reed beds and frosty banks of the reservoirs provide a vital winter sanctuary for these small songbirds.

The Nove Mlyny reservoir system and the historic parklands surrounding Lednice Castle form one of the most significant and biodiverse avian habitats in Central Europe. This extensive photographic collection captures the vibrant life within this cherished landscape, showcasing a spectacular variety of wild birds that thrive in its mosaic of open water, reed beds, and managed woodland. From the graceful glide of a great egret over calm waters to the bustling, noisy congregations of coots and greylag geese, the images present a dynamic portrait of a thriving ecosystem.

The serene waters near Dubnany provide a perfect sanctuary for a bustling congregation of wild ducks, as captured in this charming series of photographs. The scene is one of harmonious activity, set against a backdrop of calm, reflective water and soft, natural light. A large, mixed flock is visible, primarily composed of mallards, with the iconic glossy green heads and white neck rings of the drakes standing out vividly against the more subdued, mottled brown plumage of the hens.

Soft light glides over the still surface of a quiet pond, where the gentle rhythm of life unfolds. Among ripples and reflections, a family of swans moves gracefully through the calm waters. Their pale feathers shimmer under the sunlight, creating a mirror image that blends perfectly with the surrounding landscape. Each moment is filled with quiet elegance, from the adults leading their young to the small ripples forming behind every movement.

In the gentle landscapes of southern Moravia, near the ponds and meadows of Jaroslavice, life unfolds in quiet harmony. Morning light glimmers on the still surface of the water, and soft rustling rises from the reeds — the sound of countless wings and calls that shape the rhythm of the place.

Last month, I had the pleasure of spending a few days in Mariánské Lázně, a charming spa town nestled in the Czech Republic. During my stay, I was accommodated in a lovely spa hotel, and not far from it, I discovered a small yet delightful nature park. Little did I know that this serene haven would offer me an unexpected encounter with a beautiful fallow deer family. 

I have a small garden with a wooden fence, adorned with a bird feeder that's become a popular spot for some feathered friends. Specifically, I've noticed that sunflower seeds attract a delightful variety of birds. A titmouse is one of the regular visitors to my garden, often arriving in pairs, with the pairings sometimes resulting in gentle disputes over food. On occasion, when the seed supply runs low, they'll flit about, searching for alternative snacks.

As I stood in the quiet garden, I was struck by the beauty of a small sparrow perched on the wooden fence. The sun was shining, casting a warm glow over the scene, and the sparrow's feathers seemed to shimmer in the light. I couldn't help but stop and take eight pictures of this tiny bird, capturing its every move and expression.