Florian Schulz, Special Mention, 2004 Banff Mountain Photography Competition

"The Rocky Mountain grizzly bear population is in trouble. In the entire continental U.S., there are only a little over 1000 grizzlies left. In Banff National Park, there are 60; in Jasper, maybe 120. The species is at risk, especially considering that the number of breeding females producing young has greatly diminished. Often female bears with young are pushed into marginal habitat by bigger bears and end up close to settlements and highways, where they are more vulnerable.

"Once roaming the forests and prairies over vast regions of North America, the grizzly was pushed back until its only refuge was the massive Rockies. Today, four-lane superhighways, country roads, ATV trails, and open-pit mines cut through its last remaining habitat. This picture was taken in a hectic moment of confusion, blurred like a split second of shock. It represents for me the situation of a magnificent animal that has become a refugee in its own kingdom."

Nikon F5; 300mm / f2.8 AFS lens; Fuji Velvia 50 Film; tripod

Florian Schulz is a professional nature photographer based in southern Germany who spends eight to ten months a year photographing in the field. His travels have led him from Mexico north to Alaska, as well as through southern Africa. Florian’s work has been published in magazines and calendar series and is featured in multimedia slideshows. His photographs have also won several awards in international photography competitions.

Florian has recently been dedicating his time to a conservation book project in partnership with the Blue Earth Alliance. Published by The Mountaineers, his book, tentatively titled North America’s Wild Heart: From Yellowstone to Yukon, is due out in the fall of 2005.