Editor's Den

Hank Tyler

Editor

Nature photography is a key tool for highlighting the benefits and needs of protecting endangered species and their habitats including breeding grounds and migratory routes. Many of our stories, articles, and photographs come from protected areas. As more grasslands and forests are destroyed for agriculture and urban sprawl, these islands of protected lands are vital for many species’ survival.

Our Cover Story begins with noted South African nature photographer Jill Sneesby. Her favorite parks are Kalahari Gemsbok Park in South Africa and abutting Gemsbok Park in Botswana which since 1932 are barrier-free (no fences) allowing animals to freely roam between parks.

From Brazil noted nature photographer Maria Isabel Weyermanns known as “Bel” tells her story of establishing a private nature reserve on her family land to protect its fauna and flora. In this private reserve, she conducts citizen science projects of identifying and listing birds, butterflies, and moths on the reserve.

Ayushi Jain highlights India’s endangered Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle and the need to protect endangered species.

From Brazil, wildlife artist Eduardo Brettas tells his story of bird artwork for scientific books, field guides, and conservation articles.

Argentinian Gustavo Costa’s travelogue story on underwater marine photography in Jardines de la Reina Conservation area in Cuba shows stunning photos of marine life. The oceans cover 70% of the earth’s surface and the numerous marine habitats support a vast number of species, many of which still need to be identified and studied.

The next time you visit a protected conservation area for photography, please give some thought as to how you can help and participate in protecting other important lands and habitats.

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