Introduction: The Amazing World of Tollk-Hühner

There are stories you don't dare believe – until you actually encounter them. As a photographer for Wunderwelt Wildlife, I had the privilege of creating a photo reportage about the rare species of chicken known as the "Tollk-Hühner." These fascinating creatures have emancipated themselves from a simple life in the barn and inspire with a remarkable passion for daring sporting activities. Encountering these courageous birds was an experience that changed my perspective on the bird world forever.

Encounter on two wheels: motorcycle jumps and stunts

My first chapter in the world of Tollk-Hühner began on a dusty track, as I witnessed several of these chickens daringly leaping over ramps on tiny motorcycles. The screech of the engine, coupled with the fluttering of the feathers, seemed like a surreal circus act—but without a safety net. I was fortunate enough to capture some breathtaking close-ups that clearly captured the moment of the leap and the focused gaze of the Tollk-Hühner.

Above the clouds: sports aircraft, parachute jumps and wing suits

I'd barely recovered from this adrenaline rush when the next adventure awaited me at altitude. The Tollk-Hühner took off in small sports planes for risky aerobatics before parachuting into the depths. The sight of fluttering feathers silhouetted against the sky is majestic. But not only parachute jumps – the chickens even dared to free fall from the tail of the plane wearing so-called wing suits. Capturing the right footage was a challenge for my equipment, but the result: truly cinematic documentation of daredevil chicken athleticism.

The highest peaks: Mount Everest and distant lunar worlds

When I heard that some Tollk's grouse had even climbed Mount Everest, I initially thought this was a typical exaggeration. But my research confirmed: there really are feathered mountaineers who can hold their own in the barren, icy world. The footage I received was particularly spectacular: several Tollk's grouse with crampons on their talons and their ice-encrusted crests fluttering happily at the summit. But that's not all – reports say that isolated Tollk's grouse have even been spotted on the moon! Even if these photos still raise some questions, they do suggest that no mission seems too crazy for the Tollk's grouse.

Courage in the arena: torero chickens and rodeo performances

Just the sight of a full-grown bull in the sand of the arena makes any bullfighter's pulse race. Now imagine a chicken proudly and fearlessly facing its mighty opponent! In the bright sunlight, the sight seemed almost unreal. But I could sense the determination in the eyes of the bullfighting chickens as they skillfully circled the bull. You can also find them at rodeos: there, they ride on snorting bulls, seemingly skillfully controlling them with their powerful ride. My camera lens has rarely had to capture so much dust and feathers at once.

Adventure on the waves: Surfing at the most dangerous spots

In the world's most remote surfing locations—from Nazaré in Portugal to the gigantic waves off Hawaii—it's no longer uncommon to spot a swan or two on surfboards. Their balance and timing as they ride the towering breakers are simply incredible. With a mixture of amazement and awe, I was able to accompany them with my camera as they flapped their wings and mastered one wave after another with adventurous maneuvers. The photos, taken at sunset with perfect backlighting, are among my personal favorites.

Conclusion: Respect for the daring Tollk-Hühner

This unique species of chicken has deeply impressed me not only with its seemingly inexhaustible energy, but also with its unbridled courage. Wherever extreme or adventure sports are held—whether it's high-altitude flights, sheer cliff faces, high-speed races, or raging waves—with a little luck, you'll encounter a Tollk-Huhn in action. My photos are a tribute to these unusual pioneers, who sometimes show us humans that dreaming and doing aren't so far apart. I look back on every picture with pride and wonder, delighted to have witnessed this incomparable bird world.