Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Onager

Scientific name: Equus hemionus


Onager

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Family: EQUIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 50 m

Breeding season / Courtship: N/A

Gestation: 11–12 mois

Births: N/A


Habitat:
Deserts, steppes, grasslands

Description:
The Equus hemionus, commonly known as the onager or Asiatic wild ass, is a wild equid native to Central Asia. Adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, such as deserts and steppes, it has a light brown coat that becomes paler in winter, and a short, upright mane. Onagers are social animals that live in groups, often led by a dominant male. They primarily feed on grasses but can also consume shrubs and herbs. Although their population has declined due to hunting and habitat loss, conservation efforts are underway to protect this iconic species.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the onager, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. As onagers are suspicious, it's important to remain discreet and blend into the environment. Opt for early morning or late afternoon hours to benefit from soft lighting and avoid harsh shadows. A tripod can be useful to stabilize the camera, especially if using slower shutter speeds. Be patient and wait for the animal to relax to capture natural and authentic shots.

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