A rectangular patch of lawn between two rows of houses. The grass is trimmed to perfection by a robotic mower. Not a single blade stands out, not a single unplanned flower disrupts the uniform green carpet. Everything is sterile, immaculate, and perfectly controlled. The scene might almost resemble a Wimbledon tennis court—if it weren’t for the lounge chair occupied by a sunbathing woman, the picnic table, the clothesline fluttering with freshly washed laundry, and, most importantly, a century-old hollow cherry tree. Half of it died long ago, and according to its owners, the cherries produced by its few remaining branches have been disappointing for years.

Most wildlife photographers instinctively head out into the wilderness. The farther from the noise and bustle of the civilized world, the better. Perhaps it’s a reflection of that ancient human desire for adventure and discovery. Yet we often forget that fantastic subjects can be found just minutes from our front door, in locations that only vaguely resemble true wilderness.