There is good news and there is bad news and news of a croc sighting is not what local residents would consider (ever) good news but which in my opinion falls squarely in-between. For nature and wildlife lovers the presence of a reptile is nothing out of the ordinary and is in fact good news especially when it is sighted elsewhere other than its “usual” hangout. You can spot an inexperienced wildlife newbie in a heartbeat when the word hangout is used. The small town phenomenon is evident when news of the crocodile sighting spreads quicker than newspaper sales.
Driving home from a short errand on June 30th, I caught sight of the reptile basking in the strong shadow of the evening sunlight. This time of the year, we seem to experience longer daylight hours so there was enough time to head home and come back with my 20D and 100-400mm. The following excerpt from the front page of The Brunei Times.
© The Brunei Times
Stranger in the neighbourhood. A small Estuarine crocodile, relaxing on the mudflats at Kampong Sungai Bera, Seria. Residents have seen the crocodile in and around the area from time to time, however yesterday afternoon’s low tide sighting was the first that many got the chance to see the reptile lounging in the sun. As more and more curious onlookers arrived, the crocodile eventually retreated back into the shelter of nearby waters. — The Brunei Times, July 1 2008
Those of you with an over active imagination may want to include an imaginary movie theme while viewing this post to heighten your sense of fear!
© Jan Shim Photography
It’s no surprising that news of the estuarine croc attracted Mark Hessels, Chairman of the Panaga Natural History Society who is also an avid wildlife photographer. Seen below with his Nikon D300 and 400mm prime lens. It’s also not everyday that I get to shoot alongside a seasoned and knowledgeable photog.
© Jan Shim Photography
On the very next day at noon, after tidal water has recededed considerably, the same crocodile reappeared at the same spot to catch the intense morning rays (3 hours later, I got several shades darker).
© Jan Shim Photography
© Jan Shim Photography
© Jan Shim Photography
© Jan Shim Photography
Related nature and wildlife links
Hi Jan, saw your pic of the croc in Brunei Times. Nice pic and article
Look at that 400mm Prime! Never saw a Nikon Prime before as I normally seen the White Canon Telephoto Lens.
Nice shot Jan.
That Nikon lens looks HOT!
The picture is great! It doesn’t portray the crocodile as an ominous creature about to devour something (or someone!) but as a creature sharing our space, getting a much needed suntan!!
Good shot- the creature looked cool! Keep up your good work.