I was privileged to take a seminal first trip to Africa (specifically, South Africa, including Kruger National Park) in early 2011, funded by collector donations. I came away from that experience deeply and indescribably inspired, and with more than 5000 reference photos of the many, beautiful, and varied species of that incredible place.

That trip convinced me that one of the most beautiful animals in the world must be the greater kudu bull. With his slate-gray white-striped body, a mane down his spine, fringe under his neck, and two gracefully spiraling horns, it's no wonder they're sought after by hunters, artists, and wildlife watchers. This image comes from one of my all-too-brief encounters with a kudu in Africa.