Best Telephoto Lenses for Wildlife Photography (2025 Guide)
Wildlife photography demands the right gear — especially a reliable telephoto lens. In this 2025 guide, I’ll share the best telephoto lenses for wildlife photography that I recommend for capturing sharp, detailed shots of animals in the field.
What Makes a Great Wildlife Lens?
When choosing a wildlife lens, here are the top features to consider:
- Focal length (at least 300mm for reach)
- Aperture (wider apertures like f/2.8–f/4 for speed)
- Image stabilization (essential for handheld shooting)
- Weight and build quality (comfort matters on long treks)
Best Telephoto Lenses for Wildlife in 2025
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
- Affordable super-telephoto reach
- Sharp across the zoom range
- Vibration Reduction (VR) for handheld shooting
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Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary
- Huge range (150–600mm) at a budget price
- Great for birding and distant wildlife
- Optical Stabilization (OS) included
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Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS (for Sony users)
- Internal zoom (doesn’t extend when zooming)
- Weather-sealed, sharp, reliable
- Perfect for Sony Alpha wildlife shooters
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Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S (for mirrorless Z users)
- Compact and lightweight compared to older DSLRs
- Excellent sharpness and AF performance
- Great balance between reach and portability
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Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM
- Versatile zoom for Canon mirrorless shooters
- Pro-level image stabilization
- L-series durability and sharpness
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Best Budget Telephoto Lens for Wildlife Photography
Tamron 150-600mm f/5-6.3 VC USD G2
If you’re just starting out, Tamron’s budget-friendly option provides excellent reach and stabilization at a much lower cost than big-brand telephotos.
Pro Pick
Nikon 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S (built-in teleconverter)
For pros and serious wildlife shooters, this lens offers blazing-fast autofocus, incredible sharpness, and flexibility with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter. Pricey, but unmatched in quality.
Conclusion
The options for 2025 are better than ever, and there’s a telephoto lens for every photographer. Whether you’re starting out or investing in pro-level glass, check the latest prices on Amazon to find the right fit for your wildlife photography kit.
Looking for a wide-angle option too? Read my guide to the Best Wide-Angle Lenses for Landscape Photography (2025)
