Two blackbucks leap through long grass in the morning golden hour appearing to be playing leapfrog with one another. The pair were photographed in the Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan, India. Ranjani Narayanan, 39, said, “While I was scanning for the birds, I noticed a group of blackbucks emerging from the tall grass and quickly positioned ourselves near the clearing between the grass patches.” “The blackbucks are known to leap across (pronk) when they are alarmed or excited, and I anticipated that moment to capture this image. They were excited and playful when the first light appeared on the grasslands, almost as though they were playing ‘leapfrog’ with each other.” Please byline: Ranjani Narayanan/Solent News © Ranjani Narayanan/Solent News & Photo Agency UK +44 (0) 2380 458800 *** Local Caption *** When and where were these shots taken? The papers often ask for specific dates and locations and we would need to be able to provide this information upon request. This image was taken on 4th October 2024 in Tal Chhapar wildlife sanctuary located in Rajasthan, India. Can you give us an insight into the moments leading up to this as well as directly after? We started early for our Safari in Tal Chhapar, trying to photograph birds during early morning light. While I was scanning for the birds, I noticed a group of blackbucks emerging from the tall grass. We quickly positioned ourselves near the clearing between the grass patches. The blackbucks are known to leap across (pronk) when they are alarmed or excited, and I anticipated that moment to capture this image. Were they spooked by something? Or were they simply playing/chasing one another? They were excited and playful when the first light appeared on the grasslands You could say they are 'playing' leapfrog, would you agree? Yes, We can say that How were you able to capture these images? I positioned myself low when I noticed these blackbucks crossing, I saw them getting playful and jumping over each other and anticipated the moment to capture this image. It is important to understand the behaviour of these mammals to capture these moments. Is there any more information you would like us to include? This image was taken at the blackbuck reserve, situated on the border of the Great Indian Thar Desert. Tal Chhapar wildlife sanctuary protects and works towards conservation of Blackbucks from 1966, as these are nearly threatened species. And finally, what is your preferred full name, age and occupation? My full name is Ranjani Narayanan Age - 39 Occupation - IT professional.