Peter McGee
Conservation vs Tourism
Whale shark tourist site, Philippines, 2025
Category - Humanity vs Nature
Feeding wild animals is a contentious issue in marine conservation. In Oslob in the Philippines, endangered whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are fed daily by tourists flocking to see them. The practice generates economic benefits for local communities and provides an incentive to protect endangered whale sharks from lethal fishing and finning practices. While regulations are in place to minimise human contact and feeding times, concerns remain regarding the long-term impact on the sharks’ natural behaviour, migration patterns, and overall health.
RUNNER-UP
28 mm f/4-5.6 Lens - 1/200 sec at f/22 ISO 100