As part of the TWP strategy for preserving the eastern Carpathian eco-system, the power of the media in aiding such a cause can never be underestimated. So when the National Geographic approached me in January of this year for our assistance to help them make their documentary film, I jumped at the chance. I have to say we were very impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the NAT GEO crew, and the endless hours they put in everyday to gain the best footage for their documentary. We can also see why they are so fit, as the amount of equipment they carried on their backs was quite phenomenal!
We have been in fabulous company with cameraman Shane Moore, who has worked on many infamous projects such as 'Planet Earth' with David Attenborough (BBC); 'Deadliest Catch' (Discovery); and 'Survival with Ray Mears'. This documentary will go a long way in highlighting the uniqueness of the flora and fauna of the Carpathian region.
Laszlo Gal - TWP tracker finds hairs from bear on rotting log
What National Geographic wanted from the Transylvanian Wildlife Project included logistical support including off road 4x4 transportation by Land Rover; local knowledge of flora and fauna; and specialist tracking skills. Our two resident trackers, Laszlo Gal and Lajos Berde are both experienced trackers and have an intimate knowledge of wildlife behaviour and natural habitat.
TWP tracker Laszlo Gal tracking bears for National Geographic
Land Rover support for NAT GEO crew and equipment
Laszlo Gal - TWP tracker finds hairs from bear on rotting log
What National Geographic wanted from the Transylvanian Wildlife Project included logistical support including off road 4x4 transportation by Land Rover; local knowledge of flora and fauna; and specialist tracking skills. Our two resident trackers, Laszlo Gal and Lajos Berde are both experienced trackers and have an intimate knowledge of wildlife behaviour and natural habitat.
TWP tracker Laszlo Gal tracking bears for National Geographic
Land Rover support for NAT GEO crew and equipment
Jon Betz - Cinematographer
Lajos Berde - TWP tracker leading NAT GEO cameramen into forest
Several people have asked me how I made contact with National Geographic? NAT GEO were interested in making a film about the ecosystem in this region and came across my TWP website on a web search. It was as simple as that, although this was only the first step to eight months of planning. All TWP members were soon involved as planning required co-ordination between the US, UK, Germany and Romania. Skye and Yahoo messenger became very useful tools for conference calls, allowing lengthy planning sessions at little to no cost.
Shane Moore filming in the Eastern Carpathians
Shane Moore (NAT GEO cameraman) & Lajos Berde (TWP tracker)
Shane Moore (NAT GEO cameraman) working with TWP tracker Gál László
Shane Moore (NAT GEO cameraman) & Lajos Berde (TWP tracker)
Shane Moore (NAT GEO cameraman) working with TWP tracker Gál László
