Saint Barths isn’t necessarily known for its wildlife. Much of the indigenous species have been displaced by invasive ones — wild goats and mongoose among them. That said, I did fit in a few wildlife excursions around trips to the beach and found several species that still thrive on the French-speaking Caribbean island. The red-footed tortoise was quite prevalent along forested trails. This little guy seemed to be intrigued by his reflection staring back at him from my wide angle lens. Although these tortoises are common on Saint Barths, they are considered vulnerable to extinction due mainly to loss of habitat and the pet trade. Nikon D810 with Nikkor 17-35mm lens (at 17mm) ISO 800, f/5.6 at 1/125th of a second
Nice! Sean, was this tortoise at first reluctant to stick its head out from under its carapace? I would think it may have been a bit shy of a dude with a camera until it warmed up to the notion of a photo shoot!
Well, a bit shy, but not as shy as most tortoises I have met over the years. These guys would pull in briefly before getting back to the business of walking from one area to the next. One even started eating leaves while my camera was only a foot away as if it didn’t have a care in the world.
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Saint Barths isn’t necessarily known for its wildlife. Much of the indigenous species have been displaced by invasive ones — wild goats and mongoose among them. That said, I did fit in a few wildlife excursions around trips to the beach and found several species that still thrive on the French-speaking Caribbean island. The red-footed tortoise was quite prevalent along forested trails. This little guy seemed to be intrigued by his reflection staring back at him from my wide angle lens. Although these tortoises are common on Saint Barths, they are considered vulnerable to extinction due mainly to loss of habitat and the pet trade.
Gorgeous critter, great shot.
very attractive tortoise with that articulation on the limbs
Who knew about those feet looks like you were eye to eye with him for this shot
Hope U & Karen had a little R& R
Aunt Sue
Thanks Aunt Sue, we sure did. It was a much needed, albeit short break. And yes, was about a foot away with my wide angle lens.
Nice! Sean, was this tortoise at first reluctant to stick its head out from under its carapace? I would think it may have been a bit shy of a dude with a camera until it warmed up to the notion of a photo shoot!
Well, a bit shy, but not as shy as most tortoises I have met over the years. These guys would pull in briefly before getting back to the business of walking from one area to the next. One even started eating leaves while my camera was only a foot away as if it didn’t have a care in the world.
—– Saint Barthelemy
—– To meat cheese salt and tortoise
—– Gave his patronage.
great pic. and great color. for turle. this size.