Prepare to be amazed by the incredible journey of these emperor penguin chicks! A captivating moment captured by Bertie Gregory's lens.
In a breathtaking display of nature's resilience, Bertie Gregory, a renowned wildlife photographer, presents us with a freeze-frame of fledgling emperor penguins navigating the treacherous edge of an ice shelf. This image, a winner in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, showcases the raw beauty and challenges faced by these young penguins.
Bertie spent an incredible two months with the penguin colony, witnessing most chicks utilizing ice ramps to safely reach sea level for their meals. However, this particular group of chicks missed the easy route, and their story takes an intriguing turn.
The Leap of Faith:
With his drone at a safe distance, Bertie observed as these chicks took an astonishing 15-metre (49-foot) leap into the water. Left to their own devices, these chicks had to find their way to the icy ocean, a crucial step in their journey to adulthood and survival.
A Controversial Twist:
Here's where it gets controversial. Scientists believe the continuous decline of sea ice in Antarctica might force more penguins to breed on ice shelves. This means that the behavior captured in Bertie's photograph could become increasingly common in the future. Is this a natural adaptation or a sign of a struggling ecosystem?
Meet the Photographer:
Bertie Gregory, a British wildlife filmmaker and photographer, is no stranger to capturing the beauty of nature. He's the talented mind behind the Disney+ series "Animals Up Close with Bertie Gregory" and "Secrets of the Penguins." His work has earned him multiple BAFTA and Emmy awards, solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
Technical Details:
- Camera: DJI Mavic 3 Pro
- Lens: Hasselblad L2D-20c 24mm f2.8
- Settings: 1/50 at f3.5, ISO 100
- Location: Ekström Ice Shelf, Atka Bay, Antarctica
A Call to Action:
The Natural History Museum invites you to support their mission. By donating, you contribute to advancing scientific knowledge, raising awareness of critical environmental issues, and fostering a global appreciation for nature. Your support makes a difference in preserving our planet's beauty and biodiversity.
Explore More:
- View all of Bertie Gregory's captivating images: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/wpy/gallery?tags=user.18099
- Check out his Category Winner entry: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/wpy/gallery/2023-whales-making-waves?tags=user.18099
Don't Miss Out:
Donate now to join the Natural History Museum in their vital work: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/support-us/make-a-donation.html
And this is the part most people miss...
The story behind this photograph is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the resilience of wildlife. It raises questions about the impact of climate change and the adaptability of species. What do you think? Is this a heartwarming tale of survival or a sign of a changing, and potentially challenging, future for these penguins? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
