4813 x 3188 px | 40,8 x 27 cm | 16 x 10,6 inches | 300dpi
Aufnahmedatum:
18. Dezember 2013
Ort:
Hydrurga Rocks, Two Hummock Island, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica
Weitere Informationen:
Photograph by David Coleman. On the rugged shores of Two Hummock Island, located at approximately 64°08'S 61°37'W off the Antarctic Peninsula, an engaging scene unfolds as wildlife photographers focus their attention on nesting shags. This interaction highlights the growing interest in Antarctic wildlife photography and the challenges of balancing human presence with conservation efforts. The photographers, part of an organized Antarctic expedition, are using telephoto lenses to capture images of the nesting birds from a respectful distance. This approach allows for detailed observation without disturbing the natural behavior of the wildlife. Shags, which in this region are likely to be Antarctic shags (Leucocarbo bransfieldensis) or Imperial shags (Leucocarbo atriceps), are important members of the Antarctic ecosystem. These seabirds choose rocky outcrops for their nesting sites, which provide protection from predators and easy access to the rich marine environment where they feed. The nesting behavior on display offers photographers a unique opportunity to document the breeding cycle of these Antarctic birds. Two Hummock Island, with its diverse terrain of rocks and ice, provides an ideal habitat for various Antarctic species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike. The presence of photographers at this site underscores the growing popularity of Antarctic tourism and the importance of responsible wildlife viewing practices. It also highlights the role of photography in raising awareness about Antarctic ecosystems and the need for their conservation. This scene serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human curiosity and the preservation of pristine natural habitats, especially in sensitive environments like Antarctica where the impacts of climate change are increasingly evident.
