UPY 2025

UPY  Behaviour - Third
'Chew with your mouth closed!'
Bryant Turffs

I captured this image of a common snapping turtle in a freshwater spring after a prolonged period of observation. I intended to make images of manatees on this trip, but my attention was captured by this charismatic turtle. I spent several hours observing her from a respectful distance, then moving in to make images. She seemed comfortable with my presence and went about her business foraging. These turtles will consume vegetation, live prey, and also serve as scavengers in aquatic ecosystems. In this image, the turtle is consuming a scavenged flatfish, commonly known as hog-choker. The fish species got its name from farmers who observed pigs choking on their spines. These spines, however, were no match for the turtle who used her forelimbs to scrape them away before swallowing, as depicted. This experience reiterates, for me, the importance of patient careful observation.

Judge's comment: What an extraordinary animal which you don't see very often in an underwater photography competition. Very nicely framed and lit by the photographer. We trust that the animal has not been fed to get this shot and believe in the true honour of the photographer. Very nice!
Tobias Friedrich