Conservation in Focus: Photographing Wildlife on POST-Protected Lands

When we protect land, we almost always have our local wildlife in mind. That’s why POST and our partners are working together to establish a broad network of landscapes where native species can thrive and move freely, whether plant, animal, amphibious, or flying. These connected expanses ensure that vital ecosystems remain largely undeveloped, providing connectivity for all of our regional wildlife.

Raising Awareness with Wildlife Photography

We live in one of 36 biodiversity hotspots on Earth. Precious regions like ours host exceptionally high biodiversity that is at risk due to human activity. And while we know people enjoy our scenic redwoods, woodlands, and shores, they may not know how much we have to lose. At POST, we believe that helping the public understand the importance of landscape connectivity for biodiversity protection, wildlife survival, and climate resilience is vital.

When advocating for the Bay Area’s native creatures, the old adage is true: a picture is worth a thousand words. What better way to grab people’s attention than with stunning candid wildlife photography?

Earlier this year, we began working with a talented young photographer, Vishal Subramanyan. While we’ve shared motion-activated camera imagery before — like the viral video of a coyote and badger traveling together — there’s something extraordinary about Vishal’s work. He captures compelling images of local wildlife with high-quality digital camera traps that elicit a powerful emotional response.

Plus, Vishal’s high-tech cameras are able to spot elusive wildlife and their behaviors up close with minimal human interference. Motion sensors help us get a glimpse of solitary and secretive creatures as they go about their regular business, without people being physically present. And his wide-angle shots mean that plenty of beautiful, natural habitat also makes it into the frame.

Getting Started

Vishal, a UC Berkeley undergraduate, reached out to POST in search of a remote location to set up his cameras. He was hoping to attract larger animals like mountain lions. Did we know of a POST-protected property he might use? Eager for the opportunity to share gorgeous wildlife photography with the public while nurturing his considerable talents, we replied with a resounding yes!

It’s a collaboration with a worthy mission. The resulting images will be crucial tools to communicate the biological richness of our region, as well as the importance of wildlife connectivity. They will help secure support for our work in the form of community advocacy, donations, and possibly even grants for upcoming projects.

With support from POST, Vishal has set up camera traps in two key areas for wildlife connectivity: Lakeside Ranch and Coyote Valley’s Fisher Creek. Lakeside Ranch lies on the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Its new owners at the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Agency were excited to help facilitate this project. Surprisingly, we saw rapid success, capturing a striking photo of a mountain lion mid-stride in the first week! Such rare shots can take months to get, but they’re well worth the wait. Images like this reveal a vibrant world existing right alongside our busy developed landscape.

In late July, we had a similar victory in Coyote Valley. Our camera caught the attention of a curious coyote traveling along Fisher Creek. This is an important corridor for wildlife, and the valley as a whole is essential for animals moving between mountain ranges.

That’s why we’re working with the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, who own and manage significant portions of this landscape, to preserve its open spaces, restore its habitat, and create safe passageways for wildlife. We’re confident it won’t be long until a bobcat, badger, or deer crosses paths with one of Vishal’s cameras.

What’s Next

We’re eager to document the range of incredible animals who call our working area home — and to see who’s passing through. Thanks to his talents and initiative, Vishal has built a name for himself in our region, and we look forward to sharing more wildlife photography and videos with you as we get them.

Follow POST on Instagram at @postlandtrust for project updates and photos, and view more of Vishal’s work by following him at @vishalsubramanyan. Read about Vishal’s journey and process here.