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

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Shoco's peril

The Aruban burrowing owl, locally named "shoco," 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. The reflection in the owl's eyes is not of trees - it is the cabanas on the beach and a golf cart with tourists marveling at the unique sight.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 03.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Aruba
Copyright: © Arie Katz