Witness the breathtaking moment captured by Marc Costermans, a dedicated Belgian wildlife photographer, as he showcases the beauty of nature through his lens. His image, titled 'Sunrise Hop', features a male black grouse gracefully hopping against the vibrant Scandinavian sunrise. Marc's dedication to his craft is remarkable; he endured a challenging five-night camping trip in the snow to secure the perfect position for this shot. His perseverance paid off, resulting in a stunning photograph that highlights the male black grouse's distinctive blue-black iridescent plumage and the revealing of brilliant white covert feathers when they raise their tails. This species of grouse engages in a fascinating behavior during the spring months, gathering at sites known as leks to compete for dominance. Marc's passion for nature photography began during his honeymoon in the American parks, where he discovered his true calling. Since 2018, he has been an integral part of photo trips organized by the Starling Voyages agency, sharing his expertise and love for wildlife photography with others. The image was captured using a Canon EOS R6 Mark II camera with a 100–300mm f2.8 lens, set at 1/5000 at f13 (-1.3 e/v) and ISO 200. This photograph is a testament to the power of nature photography, inviting viewers to appreciate the intricate details and behaviors of wildlife. Join us in supporting Marc's work and the Natural History Museum's mission to advance scientific knowledge, raise awareness, and foster a global appreciation for the natural world through the art of photography. Donate now and be a part of this transformative journey.
