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

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
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The Aruban burrowing owl is critically endangered because of urban overdevelopment and the introduction, by humans, of invasive snake species to the island. This owl and his lifetime mate chose the most unusual place to burrow: a public beach of a resort, right by a main road. Sadly, their chances of securing their offspring's survival are low.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2022
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Oranjestad, Aruba
Copyright: © Arie Katz