UPY 2024

UPY  Portrait - Third
'Crab-eater Seal'
GREG LECOEUR

During an expedition on a small sailboat, Guillaume Nery, Florian Fisher and myself explored the Antarctica Peninsula by diving below the surface. Although the conditions were extreme with a temperature of -1° C, we documented extraordinary marine life in a fragile ecosystem, such as on this image: crab-eater seal. We also saw leopard seals, gentoo penguins, Antarctica fur seals, and Weddel seals. All these marine animals are affected by global warming with the melting of the ice. Despite the name, Crabeater Seals don’t eat Crabs. Krill make up to 95% of a Crabeater Seal's diet. Crabeater seals have developed a sieve-shaped tooth structure that filters krill, much like whale baleen. They suck up water containing krill, close their jaws, and push the water between their specialized teeth, trapping the krill inside.

Judge's comment: The crab eater seal looks so hungry. Superb lighting with two strobes was just enough to accentuate the teeth inside the gaping mouth. The eye contact adds to the menace. What also makes this image stand out for me is the shape and composition of the iceberg in relation to the seal. One of my favourites from the portrait category.
- Martin Edge