PHOTO PRO
Behind The Lens: The Hunter and The Hunted – Photos and text by Amos Nachoum, Big Animals Global Expeditions
In the shallow waters of the Ple- neau lagoon on the Antarctic Penin- sula, the scene is picturesque during low tide. Young penguins frolic, un- aware of the dangers lurking nearby. Here, the stealthy leopard seal finds a prime hunting ground. The seals
I followed closely, camera in hand, as the seal headed to- wards the deeper waters of the open sea. It dived about 15 feet, gripping the penguin gently by the tail – its intent was to drown its prey, not to wound it. Despite the grim circum- stances, the penguin exhibited incredible resilience. It thrashed fiercely, fighting for its life, and miraculously, it managed to break free, propelling itself back towards the safety of the shore. The leopard seal, however, was relentless. It quickly recap- tured the penguin in a subsequent chase. This time, the pen-
enter the lagoon before low tide, hiding in the shadows and, putting their heads down in the water, they hold their breath. Their heads fully covered by the water, they blend in seam-
lessly with the many rocks around them. In this position, they lie in wait to ambush the young pen- guins who are oblivious to the mortal danger that awaits them. Learning from the leopard seals, I entered the water as they did, stationing myself on the edge of the lagoon two hours before low tide. Seated on a rock, I surveyed the action from above. Equipped
guin’s efforts to escape were in vain, and the leopard seal was victorious in capturing a meal for itself. Witnessing this life-and-death struggle was a profound reminder of the brutal survival challenges faced daily in the wild. Through my lens, I captured the poignant mo- ments of this encounter, hoping to convey both the harsh reality of na- ture and the incredible survival in-
with a snorkel for stealth and a drysuit to stay warm, I waited for the action to commence. Once the penguins arrived, the drama unfolded rapidly. One of the penguins approached a hiding seal near where I was stationed, and by the time it no- ticed the danger, it was too late. A leopard seal, the epitome of predatory grace, surged forward and seized the hapless penguin, dragging it swiftly toward the open sea. A stunning display of nature’s raw ferocity and elegance.
stincts of its creatures. Captured March 11, 2009: Canon EOS0 1DS Mark III, Seacam underwater housing,15mm lens, 1/200 sec, f - 5,6, ISO - 800
Special Thanks to the Journal of Wildlife Photog- raphy for recognizing my work in May, 2024. Congratulations to the other winners, all the win- ners can be viewed at the Journal of Wildlife Pho- tography, May, 2024.
contact Amos
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