Sinuous Moves

Lorenzo Shoubridge's Image

Lorenzo watched quietly as the two adders swayed cheek to cheek, aware that even the smallest movement from him would distract the pair. Glad of the low angle, he isolated the intertwined bodies of the courting couple, softly blurring their surroundings in the light of a foreboding sky

These male and female adders are taking part in a courtship ritual. Bodies entwined, the pair will restlessly rise up and down, constantly shifting positions and on occasions vibrating their tails. If mating goes ahead, they will twist closer together, and the female will then give birth to up to 18 live young about three months later.


Behind the lens

Lorenzo Shoubridge

Lorenzo Shoubridge

Italy

Lorenzo specialises in macro photography and photo traps. In addition to collaborating with institutions, parks, magazines and organising field seminars, Lorenzo published his first book Apuane Terre Selvagge in 2019.

Image details

  • Nikon D700
  • 150mm f2.8 lens
  • 1/320 sec at f4.5  •   ISO 400
  • South Tyrol, Italy
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