Finding Shade
The winner in the “biodiversity under threat” category, this photo shows African elephants finding shade under a baobab tree in South Africa’s Mapungubwe National Park. Unfortunately, rising global temperatures have imperiled the delicate balance between these trees and elephants.
“Baobab trees can live for more than 2,000 years and store water in their barrel-like trunks when water is scarce. The tree in this image has had its bark stripped by elephants seeking water. Although these trees are usually fast-healing, this damage is more than baobab trees can cope with as temperatures rise due to climate change,” said photographer Samantha Kreling from the University of Washington. “This photograph highlights the need for action to prevent the permanent loss of these iconic trees.”
