SMALL CATS WORKSHOP

Cat Survival Trust, Hertfordshire

This venue provides quite a different selection of cats to those that you would find in other collections. Some of the cats form part of breeding programmes, and some have been acquired from zoos and private collections. Its location is quite close to, but not to be confused with and not connected with Santago.

Two breeding pairs of Snow Leopards

There are two large enclosures housing these marvellous creatures. you will be amazed by the length and thickness of their tails. Their athleticism just prior to feeding is amazing. Action pictures aplenty when this happens. In 2006 we were privileged to photograph the young cubs outside their cage. this year will hopefully provide a similar experience.

Lynx

There are a number of Lynx here in different enclosures. Some are quite sedentary and pose endlessly, while others are continuously on the move and much more challenging.

American Bobcats

These three cats will sometimes sit and pose in a tree and also provide great shots as they emerge into the light from a dark part of the enclosure.

Caracals

There are also three caracals. The ears are the focal point of this fabulous cat. It can sometimes be quite difficult to zoom in tight and not chop off the long hairs on their ears. As with the lynx, this is a cardinal sin and is to be avoided.

Jaguar

"Jags" is everybody's favourite. She will spend some of her time glued to the front of the cage. She loves people. She will later reward us by sitting in a tree towards the back of the cage, and everyone is happy.

Ocelot

"Lotty" spends here time on a branch lying in the sun. Every half hour or so she goes "on patrol", and emerges into the open through thick undergrowth. Catch this moment if you can!

Geoffroy's Cats and Pumas

These two species complete the collection and the day presents a quite unique collection of subjects.

Privileged Access

We photograph all the cats from inside the outer enclosures. This access is not enjoyed by the general public. All the photography will be from reasonably close and, headshots apart, long lenses are not required.