Jürgen Schulmeister is a wildlife guide and photographer based in Chile. He grew up in the heart of Patagonia and has spent almost two decades exploring its wild landscapes. As a naturalist with Far South Expeditions, he leads birding and nature tours throughout southern Chile and beyond, helping visitors discover the region’s remarkable biodiversity and captivating scenery.
Through his lens, Jürgen captures the essence of wild places. His photographs reflect a deep understanding of nature and a patient, respectful approach to wildlife. In this article, we’re proud to feature some of our favorite images from the field, taken across the varied landscapes he's come to know so well.
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#1 Grey Fox
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
Jürgen was born in Punta Arenas, Chile, and spent his childhood in rural areas, developing a strong fascination with the wildlife of his homeland. As a child, he often explored Patagonia’s trails with his parents, both experienced guides, particularly in Torres del Paine National Park. It was there that he first began identifying plants and animals, sparking a lifelong love for birdwatching.
#2 Austral Pygmy Owl
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#3 Puma
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
When he was just 7, Jürgen hiked to the base of Las Torres. Later, he traveled across Chile and South America, growing curious about how geography affects biodiversity. During these trips, he learned about the unique plants and animals that live along the Andes Mountains’ long biological corridor.
#4 Austral Pygmy Owl
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#5 Humpback Whale
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#6 Lesser Grison
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#7 Snares Penguin
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#8 Magellanic Horned Owl
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#9 Chilean Flamingo
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#10 Cougar
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#11 Puma
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#12 Rufous-Tailed Hawk
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#13 Pumas
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#14 Chilean Hawk
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#15 South Andean Deer
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#16 Chilean Hawk
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#17 Puma
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#18 Magellanic Woodpecker
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#19 Ruddy-Headed Goose
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#20 Patagonian Tyrant
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#21 Humpback Whale
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#22 South Andean Deer
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#23 Fuegian Snipe
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#24 Chilean Flamingo
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#25 Puma
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#26 Austral Pygmy Owl
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#27 Puma
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#28 Great Horned Owl
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#29 South American Terns
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
#30 Magellanic Plover
Image credits: birdsofpatagonia
