The elk is the largest representative of the deer family in Poland. After the end of World War II, only a few elk remained on the Biebrza River throughout the country. In 1950, there were only 18 of them. The population of these animals gradually increased thanks to migration from the USSR. Elk is not a protected species, but hunting has been suspended since 2001.

The Biebrza Marshes are one of the largest and most important elk refuges in Poland. Extensive swamps and marshes, diverse forest areas, a low population of humans, and the existence of the Biebrza National Park create ideal living conditions for these animals.

One of the most important moments of the year for elk is the mating season. It falls on the last days of August and lasts until the end of September, sometimes even the beginning of October. A storm of hormones then flows through the lives of moose. Males forget about the rest of the world and focus only on looking for partners. They don't eat, they lose weight and are driven only by the desire to perpetuate their species.

Moose are much quieter during mating season. Males buzz and moan while looking for a female. Elk courtship is significantly different from deer behaviour. The bull must court the female. He does it very subtly and delicately. It is the female who has the most to trust. She can accept or reject the admirer, who must agree to her conditions and often accept the presence of her growing calf.

There are often confrontations between males during the hunting season. Fights, however, are rare. Most often, a demonstration of strength is enough.

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During the photography workshop, we will have a unique opportunity to meet moose during the mating season in the Biebrza swamps, surrounded by wild nature without any traces of human presence.

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Timing: 14-19 September 2026 (4 full days of photographing, 5 nights)

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Maximum number of photographers: 3 

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Main species to photograph:

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• elk

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Other possibilities:

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• red deer

• common crane

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Guide: Professional local guide specialising in monitoring the local animals, especially elk -              the best elk guide in Poland. 

 

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Level of fitness: Medium - 3-4 km of walking per session. The terrain is rather dry and flat; however, rubber-soled shoes may be required due to wet grass in the morning.

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Accommodation: Wooden house with a fireplace on the edge of meadows near the Biebrza and Narew rivers.

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Costs:

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Total number of photographers:

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• 1250 € per person - double rooms

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Option:

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• single room - + 30 ​€ (single payment)

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Limited possibility for a single room - please state your requirement while booking the workshop. 

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Deposit:

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• 300 € per person

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Cost includes:

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• Transport to the sessions on the marshes and back

• Canoeing on the Biebrza River

• Accommodation in double rooms in a wooden house

• Meals during the trip (breakfast, dinner)

• Guide

• Daily guiding – organisation, coordination, translation, and support

 

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Please contact me if you need help organising a transfer from Warsaw airport to the place.

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If you have questions and/or are looking for more details, please fill out the contact form below at the end of the section.

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If you are looking for a different time frame for the workshop or any particular subject/species, just send your inquiry.