A MAN who took the leap to become a full-time wildlife photographer a year ago said his work has given him a new lease of life.

Paul Fowlie, from Hackforth, near Bedale, bought Red Squirrel Hides, at Sniaizleholme, near Hawes, last year in the hope it would help his new business.

Since then, he has turned the two acres of woodland into a conservation area for wildlife, and he has reported increased numbers in red squirrels, woodland birds, bats, owls, and even birds of prey.

He said: "The hides have been there for about nine years, but I noticed about 18 months ago that they had closed and I contacted the owner to see if they were for sale. Months went by and he got in touch to ask if I was still interested, so I went for it.

"There are two hides – a woodland hide and a reflection pool hide – so the opportunity for shots is fantastic. I have put up many more bird and animal nesting boxes, plus I've added lots of feeders to trees, all strategically placed to allow for the best photographic opportunities.

"I've got about 30 different kind of boxes to attract as many different species as possible, including tawny and barn owls. There are lots of boxes for small birds and I recently found some bats living in a woodpecker box.

"The red squirrels are thriving, I think there are about 20 different ones that come regularly to my woodland and I'm doing my best to ensure the population will stay strong in this area."

He said the hides were ideal for amateur and professional photographers, and he also gives tuition to beginners.

Mr Fowlie also takes groups to Scotland and Sweden to photograph animals and birds.

He said: "I have just came back from running workshops in the Scottish Highlands having spend two weeks photographing the stag rut, and in December I'm taking a group out to Sweden to photograph golden eagles.

"The first time I saw the golden eagles it was a real goosebumps moment. I'm passionate about wildlife, whether it is rare species or just our local animals and birds.

"I am really excited to see what other species I can encourage to the hides. I'd love to see pine martens – they have been spotted in Northumberland so they could come to North Yorkshire."

For information visit https://redsquirrelhide.co.uk.