Turtle in trouble

Jordi Chias Pujol's Image

It's an image that communicates in one emotive hit the damage being done to the world's oceans.

Jordi came across this desperate scene when sailing between Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, hoping to photograph dolphins. 'I spotted the abandoned net drifting along the surface,' says Jordi. As he dived down to investigate, he could see the loggerhead turtle tangled up in the netting. 'The poor creature must have been trapped for some days, it was so badly knotted up.' Though it could just reach the surface to breathe by extending its neck, it was still sentenced to a long, cruel death. 'I felt as though it were looking at me for help as it tried to bite through the netting.' Jordi released it, allowing one individual a second chance. Given that all species of sea turtles are endangered, they need all the help they can get.


Behind the lens

Jordi Chias Pujol

Jordi Chias Pujol

Spain

Jordi is a freelance photographer based in Barcelona. He specialises in photographing the underwater world, capturing both wildlife and human activity. His work has been published in magazines and books, and has been used by conservation organisations. His photography has also garnered awards in many competitions.

Image details

  • Nikon D300
  • Tokina Fisheye 10-17mm f3.5-4.5 DX lens
  • 1/160 sec at f14  •   ISO 200  •   housing
  • Off the Spanish coast, Mediterranean Sea
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

More images from Jordi Chias Pujol

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The shy crocodile
Ocean blues
It came from the gloom

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