Capturing the animals in their natural habitat requires precision and clarity. And Nikon lenses for wildlife photography are designed to deliver just that. With the right Nikon lens, photographers can bring distant animals into sharp focus so they never miss their moment.
Our guide highlights the 12 best Nikon lenses for wildlife photography, ensuring you have the tools you need to capture nature’s magic moments.
The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is our top pick because it offers remarkable reach, stability, and sharpness. The Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR impresses with its consistent exposure and clear optics at any magnification level. If you want more options, we have nine other Nikon wildlife lenses for both mirrorless and DSLR systems.
What Is the Best Nikon Z Lens for Wildlife Photography?
The best wildlife lenses offer sharpness, reach, and stability. And each Nikon Z lens in this section has been selected according to that criteria. If you’re a wildlife photographer with a Nikon mirrorless camera, this is the place to find the best lens for your animal photography.
- Exceptional versatility with broad zoom range
- Superior sharpness and fast autofocus system
- Robust build with comprehensive weather sealing
- Effective 5.5-stop Vibration Reduction system
- Optimized for Nikon Z series cameras
- Expansive 180-600mm range for distant subjects
- Effective VR for steady handheld shots
- Durable build with weather-resistant features
- Quick, accurate autofocus with stepping motor
- Pleasing bokeh with nine-blade aperture
- Lightweight design for easy handling
- Professional S-line optical performance
- Fast f/4.5 aperture for low light
- Dual STM for silent, precise focusing
- 5.5 stops of powerful image stabilization
- F/2.8 aperture for exceptional low-light performance
- Built-in 1.4x teleconverter for extended reach
- Superior image quality with S-line optics
- Advanced VCM autofocus, fast and silent
- Durable, weather-sealed for challenging environments
- Fixed 600mm reach with integrated teleconverter
- Prime lens sharpness, professional-grade optics
- Robust, weather-sealed for harsh conditions
- Fast, precise autofocus with VCM technology
- Effective 5-stop image stabilization system
Our Favorite Nikon Z Lenses for Wildlife Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Nikon Z lenses, each designed with unique features to suit the diverse needs of wildlife photographers. From versatile zooms to prime lenses with exceptional reach, these options cater to both the amateur and the seasoned pro.
1. Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1355 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
100-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
 |
The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is the Nikon lens for wildlife photography if you have a mirrorless camera. Its wide telephoto range is perfect for capturing animals at medium and long distances.
Sharpness is a strength, with the lens delivering detail-rich images. Some sharpness is lost at the very edges when at the extremes of the focal range. But anti-reflective coatings and low dispersion elements help maintain crisp picture quality, even in difficult lighting conditions.
It’s lighter than similar telephoto lenses, a bonus for photographers trekking to remote locations. The minimum focusing distance is adequate for close-ups if the animals aren’t startled by your presence.
A variable f/4.5-5.6 aperture isn’t the fastest. And you do lose a stop when fully zoomed in. But the built-in vibration reduction system gives extra support if you’re low on light. It allows you to shoot with slower shutter speeds with less risk of motion blur.
Compared to the Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR, the 100-400mm is lighter and more manageable for long hikes. The 180-600mm offers a longer reach, which might be preferred if your working with particularly shy or dangerous animals.
2. Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1955 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
180-600 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR is the best super-telephoto lens for wildlife photography. The incredible reach at the 600mm end brings distance critters into focus, allowing you to keep a safe distance while capturing stunning wildlife images.
This lens has anti-reflective coatings and special glass elements that improve image clarity and reduce chromatic aberration. These features are important for maintaining the quality when snapping wildlife in harsh lighting conditions.
It doesn’t have the fastest aperture on the list, with f/5.6 at 180mm and f/6.3 at 600mm. But the lens compensates with the built-in vibration reduction system. It gives you more control over your exposure settings when you’re struggling for light.
It’s heavier than ideal for long treks, but the trade-off is a versatile zoom range and extensive magnification. A custom control ring also gives you more hands-on control. This is a big help when you’re stalking your subject and can’t take your eye away from the viewfinder.
The Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR is a well-balanced lens that is weather-sealed for outdoor use. It has a quick-release mechanism for the tripod mounts. And the internal focus system means the lens holds its shape when you zoom in and out. It’s an incredible lens and the best wildlife lens for capturing distant animals.
3. Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1160 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.5
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is a brilliant prime lens for wildlife photography. Its optical design includes low dispersion elements that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring precise detail rendering. The lens’s coatings effectively reduce glare, which is crucial when shooting wildlife in bright sunlight.
At 1.2 kg, this lens is relatively light for its class. It’s an easy fit for any decent camera backpack. Its closest focusing distance allows for some flexibility in framing, allowing you to shoot stunning close-ups and animal portraits.
The f/4.5 max aperture isn’t bad, giving you enough light when shooting in daylight. But the VR system gives you an additional 5.5 stops of exposure compensation. That’s a godsend when snapping animals at dawn or dusk.
Nikon’s stepping motor drives the autofocus, giving you quick and accurate focusing. It’s also near-silent in operation, so it won’t give your position away. You also have a focus limiter for more efficient focusing.
There’s a custom control ring and an L-Fn shortcut button on the barrel. You can change more settings without taking your eye away from the viewfinder, so you don’t lose sight of your prey.
While not cheap, the Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is one of the most affordable lenses in its class. It’s not as versatile as some telephoto zoom lenses. But it gives you magnification, sharp optics, and optimized usability features at a reasonable price.
4. Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
2950 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 2.8
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a superb prime lens for professional wildlife photographers. While the focal length is the same as the Z 400mm f/4.5, this lens has superior optical quality and a faster maximum aperture.
The 400mm focal length gives you good reach to capture far-off wildlife. But if that’s not enough, the lens has a built-in 1.4x teleconverter. That gives you a max focal length of 560mm without only a slight deterioration in picture quality.
The lens’s coatings and low dispersion elements work together to reduce glare and chromatic aberration, ensuring that images are clear and colors are true to life.
A f/2.8 is incredible for a telephoto lens with a 400mm focal length. That means this lens has brilliant low-light performance without any assistance. But you do have assistance in the form of the vibration reduction system. You get another few stops of exposure control. Shooting early in the morning or late in the evening is no problem for this prime.
It is heavier and far more expensive than the Z 400mm f/4.5. But the enhanced sharpness, super-fast aperture, and additional features go a long way in justifying the hefty price tag of the Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S.
5. Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
3260 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
600 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S is a prime lens with sensational magnification. Of course, you don’t have the same versatility as you do with a telephoto zoom. But its sharpness is another level of excellent, capturing fine details at great distances. The lens’s coatings and low dispersion elements ensure images are clear and free from glare, even in bright conditions.
Weighing over 3 kilograms, this lens is heavy. Its built-in teleconverter is a unique feature, extending the focal length without sacrificing much sharpness.
A f/4 max aperture is fast for a telephoto with this kind of focal length. It gives you really good low-light performance. And this is backed up with the VR system that gives you another five stops of exposure compensation.
Autofocus can be sluggish on a lens of this size. But Nikon’s unique Silky Swift VCM system gives you impressive focus over the big focal length. It’s fast and accurate for capturing fleet-footed animals. And just as importantly, it’s quiet. You won’t be startling any animals when finding focus.
The Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S is expensive. But when it comes to picture quality and magnification, nothing else comes close. It’s a big investment, but one that’s worth making if you’re a professional wildlife photographer.
What is the Best Nikon F Lens for Wildlife Photography?
This section looks at the best Nikon F lenses for wildlife photography. These lenses are chosen for their long focal ranges and robust image stabilization, crucial for capturing sharp, detailed images of wildlife in action. Each lens’s unique attributes cater to the specific demands of wildlife photography.
- Versatile 200-500mm zoom range
- Consistent f/5.6 aperture
- Sharp, minimal chromatic aberration
- Effective Vibration Reduction system
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Constant f/4 aperture for better low-light
- Professional-grade build, weather-sealed durability
- Quick, precise autofocus with SWM
- Four-stop Vibration Reduction for stability
- Integrated teleconverter extends reach
- Broad 80-400mm focal range for versatility
- Vibration Reduction for steady handheld shots
- Fast, silent autofocus with SWM technology
- Solid build with weather-sealing protection
- Excellent sharpness, minimized chromatic aberration
- Lightweight design for easy portability
- 100-400mm range, ideal for distant subjects
- Effective stabilization with VC technology
- Quick, silent autofocus with USD motor
- Durable build with moisture resistance
- Integrated 1.4x teleconverter for extended reach
- Constant f/4 aperture across zoom range
- Robust build with advanced weather sealing
- Superior optical performance with FL ED elements
- Effective VR system for sharp handheld images
- Exceptional prime lens sharpness at 600mm
- Bright f/4 aperture for low-light shooting
- Advanced VR for steady, crisp images
- Durable, weather-sealed for harsh conditions
- Fast, accurate autofocus with Silent Wave Motor
Our Favorite Nikon F Lenses for Wildlife Photography
Let’s take a closer look at our favorite Nikon Z lenses, each offering unique features to suit the diverse needs of wildlife photographers.
From the expansive reach of the 600mm prime to the versatility of the 80-400mm zoom, these lenses provide the tools necessary for capturing stunning wildlife images. Whether you’re tracking fast-moving subjects or waiting patiently for the perfect shot, our selection ensures you have the right lens for any situation.
1. Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
2300 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
200-500 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is the best lens for wildlife photography if you have a Nikon DSLR. With a wide zoom range and accurate magnification, it’s easy to capture stunning animal images at any distance.
The lens delivers sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration, thanks to its three extra-low dispersion glass elements. Edge sharpness does drop slightly at 500mm and f/5.6, but stopping down can improve this.
Its f/5.6 maximum aperture isn’t the fastest. But it is constant, so you don’t lose any stops when you zoom in. And it has Nikon’s reliable VR system to help compensate when you’re low on light.
The lens is heavy, making it less convenient for long treks compared to lighter alternatives like the Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD. But the focal range and optical quality make carrying it worth it. It’s also fairly compact for a super-telephoto zoom, meaning it fits in most decent camera backpacks.
The Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is an absolute bargain for a lens with these specs. It’s still available brand new. And it’s a must-have lens if you’re a wildlife lover with a Nikon DSLR.
2. Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
3360 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
200-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II is a dream for professional wildlife photographers. The 200-400mm zoom range gives you good flexibility, allowing you to capture animals at almost any distance.
This lens’s optical construction includes four ED elements that minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring clear images. And the outer elements have a special Nano Crystal Coating that reduces glare and ghosting. You get cleaning images. And the improved light transmission gives you even better low-light performance.
And the low-light performance is excellent due to the f/4 maximum aperture. Not only is that fast for a lens with such a long focal length, but it’s also constant throughout the zoom range. You don’t lose any stops zooming in or out.
If that isn’t enough, the lens also has a vibration reduction system offering four stops of compensation. That allows you to shoot well into the evening with no loss of image quality.
It is fairly large and heavy, making it difficult to carry to more remote locations. But it does have thorough weather sealing, so you can use it outside in any weather.
It’s more expensive than the AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E. But for image quality and performance, the Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II is a cut above. It’s a specialist tool for serious wildlife photographers.
3. Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1570 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 5.6
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
80-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
With a super-wide focal range, Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is one of the most versatile lenses for wildlife photography.
The lens’s sharpness is commendable, particularly when stopped down. The barrel included several ED elements that reduce chromatic aberration and distortion. And the Nano Crystal Coating improves light transmission while reducing glare.
The variable f/4.5-5.6 isn’t ideal if you’re working at dawn or dusk, especially with more distant subjects. But you do have the help of the VR system, which gives you 3.5 extra stops of exposure control.
Nikon’s reliable Silent Wave Motor (SWM) drives the autofocus. It’s quick to find focus. And the fact it’s silent helps you stay concealed when hiding in the bush.
Weighing in at a moderate 1.5 kg, it’s not too much of a burden on longer journeys into the wilderness. It also comes with a tripod mount, making it easy to set up with your wildlife photography tripod.
When you consider the optical quality, versatility, and usability, you won’t have many complaints about the Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR price. It’s a more-than-reasonable price to pay for a top-quality Nikon wildlife photography lens.
4. Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD
| Brand |
Brand
Tamron
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
1135 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 6.3
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
100-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is the best wildlife lens for photographers on a tight budget. It’s one of the most affordable super-telephoto zoom lenses on the market. But it still delivers excellent wildlife images.
The optical quality is really clean and sharp, especially when the aperture is stopped down and you’re in the middle of the zoom range. Low Dispersion (LD) elements keep aberration to a minimum. And the eBAND coating reduces flare and ghosting for clearer shots.
It doesn’t have the fastest max aperture when you’re using the 400mm end. But Tamron’s VC image stabilization system helps you in low light. You get an extra four stops of shake compensation when light levels are low.
The lens is relatively light for its class (1.1 kg), making it a good option if you want to travel light. The moisture-resistant build allows you to work outside in wet conditions. And there’s a fluorine coating on the outer elements that protects against oil, water, and scratches.
In terms of performance, it doesn’t quite match the Nikon alternatives. But the Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD is a great wildlife lens if your budget is tight. It’s a great option for beginners learning the ropes. And it’s a lightweight telephoto zoom for trips abroad.
5. Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
3500 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
180-400 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is a professional telephoto zoom of the highest quality. You’ll need the biggest of big budgets to invest in this types of lensware. But if you can stretch to it, you won’t regret it.
The 180-400mm zoom range gives you excellent versatility. You can snap animals both near and far in exquisite detail. It sharpness is excellent, a crucial factor for capturing animals from afar. And with eight ED elements, the optical quality is truly spectacular.
A built-in 1.4x teleconverter also gives you even better magnification. When activated, it extends the max focal length to 560mm, helping you get even closer to your subject.
A Nano Crystal Coating also helps reduce glare, giving clearer images and better light transmission. A fluorine coating also protects the outer glass against scratches, stains, and smudges.
Any photographer will appreciate a f/4 aperture on a lens of this size. Not only does it give you excellent exposure control, but it is also constant throughout the zoom range. A vibration reduction system also gives you better low-light performance.
The AF motor is surprisingly fast for such a large lens. And advanced weather-sealing means you can use it outside in bad weather. It’ll be out of most photographers’ budgets, but the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is an incredible piece of equipment.
5. Nikon AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR
| Brand |
Brand
Nikon
|
| Lens Weight |
Lens Weight
3810 g
|
| Maximum Aperture |
Maximum Aperture
f/ 4.0
|
| Focal Length Range |
Focal Length Range
600 mm
|
| Image Stabilization |
Image Stabilization
|
The Nikon AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR is a phenomenal super-telephoto prime lens. And the incredible magnification and exceptional image quality make it a great option for professional wildlife photographers.
It’s a specialist sports lens, but many of the features transfer well to wildlife photography. For example, the sports VR mode is perfect for capturing fast-moving animals at full speed. It reduces motion blur to give you sharp pictures every time.
The fast f/4 maximum aperture is another highlight, allowing you to work in lower light. The 4-stop VR system helps in that department too. The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) drives the AF system, giving you fast yet quiet focusing.
There’s no getting around the fact the lens big and heavy. And you might also be surprised by how much it costs. But the Nikon AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR is a professional piece of equipment. And one that pro wildlife photographers love to use.
Conclusion: The Best Nikon Lenses for Wildlife Photography
The only way to capture stunning, detailed images of animals in their natural habitats is to find the best Nikon lens for wildlife photography. The lenses reviewed offer a range of focal lengths and features to suit various shooting conditions and photographer preferences. From lightweight for trekking to lenses with built-in teleconverters for extra reach, each lens hits the brief for wildlife photographers.
Our top two choices, the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S and Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR, stand out for their combination of reach, image quality, and versatility. The former is praised for its sharpness and portability, while the latter is noted for its consistent aperture and optical performance. But as we’ve demonstrated, you have plenty of options when it comes to Nikon lenses for wildlife photography.
