Photography and Wildlife Awareness
Wildife photographer : Remi Schnell
By Cyriaque Griffon
French squirrels are sending a message in a bottle, across the Channel, to His Majesty King Charles III. It reads : « Hi there ! We, French squirrels, add our voice to the British cause… Red squirrels need help…whether in the UK or over here in France. We would be both delighted and relieved if His Majesty King Charles III could hear our SOS… »
We are aware of Britain’s booming population of non-native grey squirrels. They were introduced in the UK from the USA in the 19th century. Yet, grey squirrels are acknowledged as an invasive species which is threatening the native European red squirrel in the British Isles and some parts of northern Italy. The spread of grey squirrels in northern Italy represents a problem for the entire European continent, since from Italy the alien species has started to colonise border countries, i.e. southern France and Switzerland. The grey ones are both larger and and fearless. They also outcompete the reds regarding food and living space, not to mention a virus that they carry and which can kill the reds. Though the situation is less worrying in France than in the UK, grey squirrels represent a threat to native red squirrels families in France.
Sending out a message to Balmoral…
King Charles III has been sensitive to the issue of red squirrels for several years with a view of combatting their decline in the UK and restoring the population, hence a particular attention to the red residents of the wooded areas sourrounding Balmoral castle. French red squirrels hope for one thing ; that these marvellous images cross the Channel to reach the eyes of the royal resident of Balmoral castle, the place where their British counterparts – these little adorable red furry creatures – are let roam freely in the property. FabUK is committed to relaying this message to King Charles. We never know… If he happens to read this…and hear their voice… If only… Maybe his connections with the « Red Squirrel Survival Trust » would give advice to the little French reds…
Monitoring efforts should be more intensive. Some wildlife experts install cameras and work, not only to capture unforgettable encounters but also to raise public awareness. Western France based wildlife photographer Remi Schnell is one of them. He tracks whith his camera these little inhabitants of our wooded areas and spend hours and hours, waiting for these unique moments, especially when they literally fly from one branch to another. Remi is so talended and discreet that the family living behind his home is used to seeing him without really being bothered. When the eye of a photographer catches a glimpse of the beauty of a squirrel, there is something that must be shared with the world. The lens of a patient talented photographer captures the magic in these very special moments of wildlife encounters. This is a breathtaking vision which may be unbeatable in terms of emotion. Have a look at Remi’s Instagram account !
To optimize the chance of an upbeat outcome, I’ll give the floor to dear old French red squirrel aka Monsieur Casse-Noisette (= Mr Nutcracker) :
« Hello ? Is there anyone at Balmoral ? Why not create a bridge between France and the British Isles so that we can sound the alarm together and strenghten our fight ? Our friend and defender – aka French photographer Remi Schnell – is looking forward to forging bonds aiming at raising awareness regarding our issue… »
Meanwhile, in addition to the 4 selected photos that you have just admired here (Perfect reflect, Flying Nutcracker, Ninja Squirrel, Squirrel in Velvet Night Sky), you will be stunned when checking this out on Remi Schnell Photography
100% AI free !
Last but not least, in an era where AI quietly shapes everything, making us run after time and lose our perception of the real world, Remi’s work is all the more magical as these images are 100% AI-free photos. The recipe is composed of three main ingredients which are the 3Ps, i.e. no AI but Passion, Patience and Professionalism…All this makes us sensitive to both the beauty and the fragility of our ecosystems.
