Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Basking on a log

An American alligator, the largest reptile in North America, basks peacefully on a fallen tree trunk, its powerful presence blending seamlessly into the serene landscape of a Florida freshwater spring. In this split-shot image, the tranquil waters below reflect the interconnectedness of the alligator’s habitat, where land and water meet in perfect harmony. Captured at Silver Glen Springs, Florida, the scene highlights the calm, yet commanding nature of this iconic predator as it rests in the warmth of the sun, embodying the unhurried rhythm of life in Florida’s pristine forested ecosystems.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Fl, United States of America
Camera: ILCE-7RM3
Copyright: © Tom Shlesinger