10 Best Nikon Z7 II Lenses For Wildlife Photography 2024 (Updated Expert Advice)

What Is The Best Nikon Z7 II Lenses For Wildlife Photography?

Are you ready to elevate your wildlife photography to new heights with the Nikon Z7 II? 

As any seasoned photographer knows, the right lens can make all the difference in capturing breathtaking moments in the wild.

That’s why I’m excited to present to you the 10 best Nikon Z7 II lenses specifically curated for wildlife photography enthusiasts like you.

From stunning telephoto lenses that bring distant subjects into razor-sharp focus to versatile zoom lenses that adapt to any shooting scenario.

These lenses are meticulously crafted to unleash your creativity and capture the beauty of the natural world like never before. 

Join me on a journey through this selection, and discover the perfect lens to complement your Nikon Z7 II and unlock the full potential of your wildlife photography endeavors.

List Of Top 10 Best Nikon Z7 II Lenses For Wildlife Photography

1. Nikkor 800mm f/5.6E
2. Nikkor 600mm f/4E FL ED VR
3. Nikkor 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR
4. Nikkor 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR
5. Nikkor 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR
6. Nikkor 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
7. Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II
8. Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR
9. Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
10. Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

After a deep and thorough research along with expert recommendations, I have shortlisted and curated a list of top 10 Best Nikon Z7 II Lenses For Wildlife Photography.

1. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 800mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (FX)
• Camera Lens Description: 800 month

Pros

1. Exceptional telephoto reach
2. Outstanding image quality
3. Effective Vibration Reduction (VR)
4. Robust build quality

Cons

1. High price tag
2. Large and heavy
3. Limited versatility
4. Requires tripod for extended use

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED Vibration Reduction Fixed Zoom Lens is a powerhouse telephoto lens designed to bring distant wildlife subjects closer with remarkable clarity. 

Its long focal length and superb image quality make it ideal for capturing detailed shots of elusive animals in their natural habitats. 

While its size and price may deter some photographers, those who prioritize unparalleled reach and image quality will find this lens to be an indispensable tool for wildlife photography adventures.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR Lens

2. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 600mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F
• Camera Lens Description: f/4

Pros

1. Exceptional image quality
2. Versatile focal length
3. Effective Vibration Reduction (VR)
4. Relatively lightweight for its class

Cons

1. High price point
2. Large size
3. Limited maximum aperture
4. Requires careful handling

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED Vibration Reduction Fixed Zoom Lens is a top-tier telephoto lens crafted for professional wildlife photographers seeking uncompromising performance. 

With its impressive image quality, versatile focal length, and effective Vibration Reduction technology, this lens excels in capturing stunning wildlife shots with precision and clarity. 

While its premium price and bulk may be a consideration, the exceptional results it delivers make it a valuable investment for serious wildlife enthusiasts.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR Lens

3. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL  Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 400mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (FX)
• Camera Lens Description: f/2.8

Pros

1. Exceptional low-light performance
2. Fast and precise autofocus
3. Compact and relatively lightweight
4. Superb image quality

Cons

1. Very high price
2. Limited zoom range
3. Requires careful handling
4. Less versatile than zoom lenses

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED Vibration Reduction Fixed Zoom Lens is a professional-grade telephoto lens engineered for demanding wildlife photography scenarios. 

Boasting exceptional low-light performance, lightning-fast autofocus, and superb image quality, this lens is designed to capture stunning wildlife images with unparalleled clarity and detail. 

While its premium price and fixed focal length may limit its versatility for some photographers, those who prioritize speed, precision, and top-notch performance will find this lens to be an indispensable tool in their kit.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens

4. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 120-300mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon DX, Nikon F
• Camera Lens Description: 120-300mm

Pros

1. Versatile zoom range
2. Fast f/2.8 aperture
3. Image stabilization (VR)
4. High-quality optics

Cons

1. Bulky and heavy
2. Expensive
3. Some distortion at extremes
4. Limited reach compared to longer lenses

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR lens offers a flexible telephoto zoom range coupled with a fast aperture, making it an excellent choice for wildlife photography. 

With image stabilization and high-quality optics, it delivers sharp images even in challenging conditions. 

While its size, weight, and price may be deterrents for some photographers, the versatility and performance of this lens make it a valuable asset for capturing dynamic wildlife shots at various distances.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR Lens

5. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 180-400mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Type E AF-S lens with built-in CPU and F mount (1.4x Teleconverter built-in)
• Camera Lens Description: f/4

Pros

1. Versatile zoom range
2. Built-in 1.4x teleconverter
3. Image stabilization (VR)
4. Excellent optical quality

Cons

1. High price point
2. Bulky and heavy
3. Limited maximum aperture
4. Complexity with built-in teleconverter

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is a super-telephoto zoom lens designed for professional wildlife photographers seeking flexibility and exceptional image quality. 

With its versatile zoom range and built-in 1.4x teleconverter, this lens offers extended reach without sacrificing optical performance. 

Despite its premium price and size, the inclusion of image stabilization and high-quality optics make it a valuable tool for capturing stunning wildlife images with clarity and precision, especially in challenging shooting conditions.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens

6. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm F/5.6E Pf ED Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 500mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F
• Camera Lens Description: f/5.6

Pros

1. Lightweight and compact
2. Excellent optical performance
3. Effective Vibration Reduction (VR)
4. Versatile for various wildlife shots

Cons

1. Relatively narrow maximum aperture
2. Expensive compared to some alternatives
3. Less reach compared to longer lenses
4. Limited low-light capabilities

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm F/5.6E PF ED VR Super-Telephoto Lens is a remarkable blend of portability and performance, ideal for wildlife photographers who prioritize mobility without compromising image quality. 

Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry and handle in the field, while still delivering stunning results thanks to its high-quality optics and effective Vibration Reduction technology. 

While it may not offer the same reach as longer lenses, its versatility and impressive optical performance make it a compelling choice for capturing captivating wildlife images with ease and precision.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens

7. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 200-400mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (FX)
• Camera Lens Description: f/4

Pros

1. Versatile zoom range
2. Constant aperture of f/4
3. Effective Vibration Reduction II (VR II)
4. High-quality optics for sharp images

Cons

1. Heavy and bulky
2. Expensive investment
3. Requires careful handling
4. Limited low-light performance compared to faster lenses

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED Vibration Reduction II Zoom Lens is a professional-grade telephoto zoom lens crafted for wildlife photographers seeking flexibility and exceptional image quality. 

With its versatile zoom range and constant aperture of f/4, this lens offers consistent performance across various shooting scenarios.

Despite its hefty size, weight, and premium price tag, its effective Vibration Reduction II technology and high-quality optics make it a valuable tool for capturing stunning wildlife images with clarity and precision, even in challenging conditions.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II Lens

8. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 70-200mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F
• Camera Lens Description: f/2.8

Pros

1. Fast constant aperture of f/2.8
2. Excellent image stabilization (VR)
3. Superior optical quality
4. Versatile for various photography genres

Cons

1. Relatively large and heavy
2. Expensive investment
3. Limited reach for wildlife photography
4. May require additional teleconverter for longer distances

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens is a renowned telephoto zoom lens prized by professionals and enthusiasts alike for its exceptional performance across a wide range of photography genres. 

With its fast constant aperture of f/2.8, advanced image stabilization, and superior optical quality, this lens excels in capturing sharp and vibrant images in diverse shooting conditions. 

While its size, weight, and price may be considerations, its versatility and outstanding performance make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit, whether for wildlife photography or other photographic pursuits.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens

9. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 200-500mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F
• Camera Lens Description: f/5.6

Pros

1. Impressive zoom range
2. Effective Vibration Reduction (VR)
3. Relatively affordable for its class
4. Solid optical performance

Cons

1. Bulky and heavy
2. Narrow maximum aperture
3. Some image softness at extreme telephoto
4. Autofocus can be slow in low light

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens that offers an impressive focal range at a reasonable price point. 

With its effective Vibration Reduction technology and solid optical performance, this lens is well-suited for wildlife photography, allowing photographers to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. 

While its size and weight may pose challenges for some s, its affordability and performance make it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking to explore the world of telephoto photography without breaking the bank.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens

10. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G Lens

Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Focal Length: 80-400mm
• Lens Type: Telephoto
• Compatible Mountings: Nikon F (FX)
• Camera Lens Description: f/4.5-5.6

Pros

1. Versatile zoom range
2. Effective Vibration Reduction (VR)
3. Relatively compact design
4. Suitable for handheld shooting

Cons

1. Variable maximum aperture
2. Some image softness at extreme focal lengths
3. Autofocus can be sluggish in low light
4. Price may be high for some budgets

Short Description

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras.

With its flexible zoom range and effective Vibration Reduction technology, this lens offers photographers the flexibility to capture a wide range of subjects, including wildlife, sports, and landscapes. 

While its variable maximum aperture and autofocus performance in low light may pose some limitations, its relatively compact design and handheld shooting capabilities make it a convenient option for photographers on the go.

Buy It Now: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 G ED VR Lens

Conclusion

The 10 best Nikon Z7 II lenses for wildlife photography offer a diverse range of focal lengths, from ultra-telephoto to versatile zooms, catering to the unique needs of wildlife photographers.

With exceptional image quality, advanced features like vibration reduction, and sturdy build quality, these lenses empower photographers to capture stunning wildlife images with precision and clarity. 

Whether you’re tracking elusive subjects in the wild or capturing dynamic wildlife action, these lenses are essential tools for unlocking the full potential of your Nikon Z7 II and taking your wildlife photography to new heights.

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FAQs

What makes these lenses the best for wildlife photography with the Nikon Z7 II?

These lenses are carefully selected for their exceptional image quality, versatile focal lengths, advanced features like vibration reduction, and compatibility with the Nikon Z7 II.

Are these lenses suitable for other types of photography besides wildlife?

Yes, many of these lenses are versatile enough to be used for various photography genres such as sports, landscapes, and portraiture.

Are these lenses compatible with other Nikon camera models?

While specifically chosen for the Nikon Z7 II, most of these lenses are compatible with other Nikon DSLR cameras, providing flexibility for photographers with different camera bodies.

What factors should I consider when choosing a lens for wildlife photography?

Important factors include focal length, aperture, image stabilization, build quality, and weight. Choose a lens that suits your specific wildlife photography needs and shooting preferences.

Are these lenses weather-sealed for outdoor use in challenging conditions?

Many of these lenses feature weather-sealed construction, offering protection against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures, making them suitable for outdoor wildlife photography.