An image of ecologists searching for an elusive, critically endangered bird has won the 2023 Ecological Society of Australia annual photography competition.
The photograph by Marcia Riederer titled ‘Searching for the Plains-wanderer‘ (Pedionomus torquatus) was described by judges as “both visually interesting and well composed.”
“The position of the Milky Way leads the eye to the ecologists, and the lighting has been managed well which isn’t easy.”
“It tells a story of what these ecologists have probably spent dozens of hours doing, searching for the species until the early hours of the morning.”
The competition is popular among working ecologists and ecology students, resulting in a gallery of images showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. ‘Searching for the Plains-wanderer’ reflects this, shining a light on the work of Australian ecologists and one of our lesser-known species.
Scroll down for some of the hioghlights, but all shortlisted images are here
Overall Winner: Marcia Riederer – Searching for the Plains-wanderer
Best Image by a Student/Early Career Ecologist: Murray Kelman – Bat School
Highly commended: Sophie Frame – Hidden in plain sight
Beneath Southern Skies: Unique Australian Landscapes: 1st Place
Russell Charters – Loch Ard Gorge Aurora
Highly commended: Imogen Manins – Predator on the hunt
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Originally published by Cosmos as Ecologists in their workplaces provide striking images
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