Early January 2013, Renée went back to beautiful Bulgaria to spend three days photographing golden eagles, from a hide high in the mountains north east of Sliven. It was cold, but the spot was very scenic and still easily approachable - a twenty minute walk through snow in the dark every morning and evening. A golden eagle couple came to visit every day, competing for the food with ravens and griffon vultures.

Afterwards for one day just across the border into northern Greece, to Lake Kirkini, for the Dalmatian pelicans. The pelicans hadn’t reached full breeding plumage yet, but they were lively enough and pics have come out just fine.

The trip was guided by Emil Enchev and Miro Slavchev, who did everything they could to make this a productive and enjoyable photo-trip.