One eye on the past

Photographer

Jochen Maes

Category

Nature Photography - Wildlife

Company

Submission Group

Amateur

Year

2024

Country / Region:

Belgium

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu) has had devastating effects on (sea)bird colonies over the past couple of years. However, recent evidence suggests that Northern Gannets are able to survive the illness and make a surprising recovery. A distinctive black iris highlights the previous infection. This couple (Gannets mate for life) suggests that even in the face of adversity, there's always hope.