Mateusz Piesiak
Sunflower Paradise
Bramblings in a field of sunflowers, Poland, 2021
Category - Humanity Versus Nature
Usually, there is no sign of life in this particular farmland in winter, but this field of sunflowers, which could not be mown because of flooding, had become a veritable paradise for birds. Bramblings, goldfinches, greenfinches, and many other species of passerine birds had flocked here, attracting a few predators too, including falcons, harriers, sparrowhawks, and buzzards. I photographed this group of bramblings (Fringilla montifringilla) feasting on sunflower seeds by getting down to their level and using a remote-controlled camera for a unique angle. While the flooding that caused this situation represented a financial loss for the farmers, it proved beneficial for the local wildlife. I believe it is essential to consider how biodiversity conservation can be integrated into our practices. For example, a small area of land left fallow in winter can make a significant contribution to the well-being of our planet.
10-24 mm f/4 Lens - 1/340 sec at f/11 ISO 800