Romanian photographer Stef Stanciu embarked on an extraordinary adventure in September 2023, capturing breathtaking drone footage of endangered black Alpine chamois.
These magnificent creatures, resembling a cross between a goat and an antelope, were spotted running down the rugged slopes of the Ceahlau Massif, a renowned mountain range nestled in the Eastern Carpathians. Stef’s encounter was a stroke of luck, as he witnessed not just one, but two separate families of these rarely-seen caprinae.
Having explored the Ceahlau Massif extensively over the years, Stef expressed his astonishment at finally encountering the elusive black chamois. He reminisced about his countless ventures through the Massif, traversing hundreds of kilometers in various weather conditions, only to be met with disappointment.
However, fate had a different plan for him this time, unveiling the enigmatic beauty of the black chamois. The drone footage captured by Stef showcased the grace and agility of these remarkable creatures as they gracefully navigated the treacherous terrain.
Their ebony fur stood out vividly against the rocky backdrop, adding an ethereal quality to the already mesmerizing scenery. Stef’s keen eye for detail allowed him to capture each movement with precision, leaving viewers in awe of the chamois’ elegance.
The following day brought another surprise for Stef, as he stumbled upon a solitary chamois basking in the warmth of the sun on a solitary rock. This particular chamois seemed unperturbed by Stef’s presence, allowing the photographer to take exquisite photographs that conveyed a sense of tranquility and harmony.
However, the chamois left an unexpected gift behind—a small pile of droppings that served as a subtle reminder of her indifference to being photographed. Undeterred by this comical encounter, Stef continued his explorations and was rewarded once again with the sight of the same black chamois from the previous day.
This time, she was leisurely engrossed in the act of ruminating on a massive rock, seemingly unbothered by Stef’s presence. Gazing at the photographer from a distance of 20-30 meters, the chamois exuded an air of nonchalance.
After patiently capturing her essence through his lens for approximately ten minutes, Stef’s muse finally stirred from her repose. With an air of indifference, she sauntered away, leaving behind yet another set of droppings as if to emphasize her exhaustion with the paparazzi-like attention.
Stef’s enchanting encounter with the black Alpine chamois not only highlighted the striking beauty of these endangered creatures but also served as a testament to the wonders of the natural world.
His captivating photographs and drone footage provide a glimpse into the intimate lives of these elusive animals, reminding us of the delicate balance between humanity and the environment. Through his lens, Stef Stanciu invites us to appreciate the magnificence of the Eastern Carpathians and the extraordinary wildlife that call it home.
