Beyond The Image:

Photography as a Tool for Conservation

By Quintez Bethel

Each species tells a story of resilience, beauty, and its role in the fragile balance of life in The Bahamas. Through photography, these narratives come to life, fostering a deeper connection to the creatures that define our islands and inspire conservation.

Bahamas National Trust, 2024 Conservation Storytelling and Media Internship

Introduction

My name is Quintez Bethel, and I am a 22-year-old Bahamian photographer. My journey with photography began at 15 when I received my first camera. By the time I turned 17, nature had become my primary muse, and what started as a hobby quickly evolved into a profound passion. Nature photography became my lens not just for capturing the world around me but for telling the stories of moments, emotions, and intricate connections that words often cannot convey.

My fascination with the natural world began in my earliest years, inspired by the legendary voices of Steve Irwin and Sir David Attenborough, and the countless nature TV programs I watched as a child. Their unwavering love for wildlife ignited my own dream of becoming a wildlife photographer—a dream rooted in an irresistible urge to share the beauty of nature with others, especially those who may never have the chance to experience it firsthand.

Over time, I realized that wildlife photography is more than a craft; it is a responsibility. As photographers, we are not mere observers, we are advocates. Each image we capture carries the weight of representing creatures that cannot speak for themselves. It is our duty to use our art to raise awareness about their existence and the challenges they face. This responsibility fuels my work, knowing that every photograph has the potential to educate, inspire, and drive action toward conservation.

The power of photography lies not only in its ability to showcase beauty but also in its role as an educational tool. A well-composed image can reveal details that foster understanding of the intricate ecological relationships that sustain life. For instance, a photograph of a bird’s nest on a remote cay might reveal the fragile importance of isolated spaces as breeding grounds for wildlife. Similarly, an image of a bat nurturing its young in the safety of a cave reminds us of the vital importance of preserving hidden ecosystems. These visuals serve as powerful reminders of the delicate connections between species and their habitats, underscoring the urgency of conservation.

During my Conservation and Storytelling internship with The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), I had the privilege of photographing a stunning diversity of wildlife. From the striking White-crowned Pigeon in flight at Bonefish Pond National Park to the ancient Andros Rock Iguanas of Andros West Side National Park, each photograph became a window into lives often hidden from view. Together, these images and stories of these species weave a narrative of nature in a delicate balance and highlight our role in advocating for the conservation of these species and their habitats.

Introducing Nature’s Protagonists

The Bahamas is home to a vibrant diversity of wildlife, each species sharing its own story of resilience, beauty, and deep connection to the natural world. Through my lens, I’ve sought to capture these narratives - moments that reflect both the fragility and strength of life in our ecosystems. My hope is that these images and stories inspire others to recognize the importance of preserving our natural heritage for generations to come.

"Every species I encountered brought a new lesson about the delicate balance of life in The Bahamas. Through my camera, I discovered not only their beauty but also their challenges—and the stories they hold."
Quintez Bethel

Caribbean Flamingo

Phoenicopterus ruber

The Caribbean Flamingo, also known as the American Flamingo, is the national bird of The Bahamas and has a remarkable conservation history. Once nearly facing extinction in the region, these stunning birds were declining due to hunting and disturbance by humans and introduced species. By the mid-20th century, their population in The Bahamas had fallen to alarming levels.

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) played an important role in their recovery, hiring wardens to protect the birds on the island of Great Inagua and creating the Inagua National Park in 1965, the country’s second national park. This 287-square-mile sanctuary now hosts one of the largest breeding colonies of Caribbean Flamingos in the Western Hemisphere. The BNT's efforts, coupled with strong wildlife protection measures, have allowed the flamingo population to rebound on Inagua and spread to other islands in the southern Bahamas.

Flamingos are known to thrive in the saline lakes and mangrove mudflats of The Bahamas - especially in the salt marshes of Inagua. These habitats are home to brine shrimp and other invertebrates that make up the flamingos’ diet, and the shallow waters are ideal for feeding and nesting. The unique Bahamian landscape is vital for their survival, offering both food and a safe breeding ground.

I was fortunate to photograph a unique, isolated population of Caribbean Flamingos in the remote Andros West Side National Park. The journey to reach these magnificent birds was an adventure in itself. It began with a long boat ride across the shallow, turquoise waters of Andros’ west side and continued with a grueling 40-minute trek through thick, muddy mangroves under the sweltering summer sun.

The effort, however, was more than worth it. As we emerged from the mangroves, I was met with a breathtaking scene: a vivid pink flock of flamingos standing gracefully in the shallow water. Witnessing these elegant birds in this untouched habitat was a powerful reflection of their remarkable conservation journey and a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their survival.. Though their current status is not of concern, there is still value in using photography to connect people with these birds. Many have only seen flamingos in captivity, but through photography, the beauty and importance of wild flamingos can be shared with a broader audience, igniting passion for their continued protection.

This photograph captures the breathtaking moment when the flock of birds took flight into the sky, their striking feathers contrasting against the deep green of the mangrove leaves and the clear blue expanse of the sky, their quirky calls echoing throughout the open air.

Andros Rock Iguana

Cyclura cychlura cychlura

Rock iguanas, belonging to the genus Cyclura, are among the most endangered lizards in the world. Endemic to the Caribbean islands, these robust reptiles are typically 2 to 5 feet long, and have bold colorations that varies among species to blend seamlessly into their environment. Found in coastal areas, dry forests, and rocky outcrops, they are highly territorial and depend on habitats rich in vegetation and basking spots.

The Andros Rock Iguana (Cyclura cychlura cychlura) is a remarkable species endemic to Andros Island in the Bahamas. As one of the largest native terrestrial vertebrates in the region, these iguanas exhibit a dark gray to black coloration, accented by vibrant yellowish-green or orange-tinged scales. With maturity, especially in males, the yellow hues gradually shift to orange-red, making them a striking presence in their natural habitat.

A distinctive aspect of the Andros Rock Iguana is its nesting behavior. Unlike many other iguana species, females of this subspecies lay their eggs in termite mounds to assist with incubation and protection from predators. Unfortunately, the Andros Rock Iguana is classified as endangered - their numbers are declining due to various human-induced threats. Habitat destruction from development, illegal poaching, and the introduction of invasive species like feral cats and dogs have all contributed to their endangered status. The BNT plays a critical role in conserving these iguanas. Through habitat protection, scientific research and public education, BNT works to ensure that these iguanas have a fighting chance.

This portrait of the Andros Rock Iguana, taken in the Andros West Side National Park, captures the intricate patterns and textures of its scales, from the vibrant hues of orange and pink to the rugged ridges that reflect its resilience in the wild. The iguana’s posture, with its head lifted high, symbolizes its role as a sentinel of the Bahamian landscape—one of the largest native terrestrial vertebrates and among the most endangered.

White Crowned Pigeon

Patagioenas leucocephala

The White-crowned Pigeon (Patagioenas leucocephala) is a frugivorous bird native to the Caribbean and parts of Central America. In The Bahamas, it inhabits coastal areas, mangroves, and hardwood forests, favoring locations with abundant fruiting trees. These pigeons primarily feed on berries from native plants, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal and maintaining forest ecosystems.

Culturally, the White-crowned Pigeon holds significant importance in Bahamian history as a traditional source of food, with hunting deeply ingrained in local customs. However, this practice has raised ethical concerns, especially as the species is listed as near threatened. The open hunting season reflects cultural traditions but also highlights the need to balance heritage with sustainable practices to protect the species’ survival.

Beyond hunting pressures, habitat loss due to deforestation and development poses significant threats to the White-crowned Pigeon. Protecting small offshore islands where the birds breed and safeguarding inland habitats are crucial steps toward their conservation. Bonefish Pond National Park, for example, provides an important refuge for these birds. Located on the southern edge of New Providence, the park is a vital wetland ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of wildlife, including the White-crowned Pigeon. Its mangroves and terrestrial habitats offer a safe haven for the species, for feeding and nesting.

During my CSM internship, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the White-crowned Pigeon and other coastal bird species during a kayaking expedition at Bonefish Pond National Park. As we navigated the mangroves, we observed how these vital habitats serve as nesting and breeding grounds, highlighting their critical role in supporting bird populations.

The image captures the pigeon in full flight, its striking white crown and dark plumage standing out against the vivid turquoise waters of Bonefish Pond. The dynamic composition of the photograph brings to life the grace and freedom of the pigeon while showcasing its connection to the coastal ecosystem.

Cuban Amazon (Bahama Parrot)

Amazona leucocephala bahamensis

The Cuban Amazon aka Bahama Parrot (Amazona leucocephala bahamensis), commonly known on Abaco as the Abaco Parrot, is a vibrant symbol of resilience and conservation success in The Bahamas. Adorned with bright green feathers, blue-tinted wings, and distinctive red facial hues, it stands as one of the archipelago's most striking endemic birds.

Unique amongst parrots, the parrots of Abaco nest in limestone cavities in the ground within the pine forests of Abaco Island. This subterranean nesting behavior, while advantageous for temperature regulation, renders the species vulnerable to predation by feral cats and raccoons, as well as habitat disturbances.

The establishment of the Abaco National Park in 1994 by the BNT, encompassing over 20,000 acres of pine forest, was a pivotal moment in the conservation of the Abaco Parrot. This achievement was significantly influenced by the passionate advocacy of local schoolchildren, whose heartfelt letters to the government underscored the community's commitment to preserving the parrot's habitat.

Growing up in Abaco, I had never encountered the Abaco Parrot until my CSM Internship experience. Witnessing these parrots for the first time, especially during their lively chattering at dawn and dusk, was a moment of awe and connection. Their striking colors and spirited demeanor mirror the vibrant essence of the island itself. Through my camera lens, capturing the parrot in its natural environment became an act of storytelling, conveying the bird's beauty and the success of the conservation efforts that have protected it.

This photograph captures a Bahama Parrot perched atop a pine tree in the Abaco National Park. Its vibrant green feathers and red facial hues are stained with brown, an indicator of its unique lifestyle. This detail connects the parrot to its behavior and activity in pine forests, peeling the barks of pine cones, and excavating dirt from burrows where it lays its eggs.

Bahama Oriole

Icterus northropi

The Bahama Oriole - a striking bird with shiny black plumage and a bright, lemon-yellow coloring on its belly, wings, and rump - is sadly only found on Andros Island in The Bahamas. Once upon a time, it also inhabited Abaco, but now its status is endangered.

My introduction to the Bahama Oriole came during my BNT CSM Internship, where I participated in a two-day workshop hosted by The BNT and Re:Wild. This workshop focused on developing a 5-year conservation action plan for this critically endangered species. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges that are negatively impacting the Bahama Oriole - and the threats that still jeopardize its survival.

Invasive species, specifically cowbirds and cats, which target oriole nests and their young respectively. Additional habitat loss, development, and agricultural expansion further compound the issue. Climate change looms as an additional, long-term threat, gradually altering the delicate habitats these birds rely on. Each of these challenges paints a sobering picture of the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to safeguard the future of the Bahama Oriole.

The BNT is at the forefront of efforts to conserve the Bahama Oriole, focusing on protecting its remaining habitat and raising awareness about the species’ critical plight. Key conservation initiatives include protecting habitats the Oriole depends on, conducting research and monitoring to understand the Oriole population better, and implementing community outreach and education programs. These efforts aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the Bahama Oriole and inspire collective support for its protection.

Participating in the Bahama Oriole workshop was a rewarding experience that came full circle during our inaugural internship trip to Andros, where I had the privilege of seeing and photographing my very first Bahama Oriole.

The photograph I captured depicts the Oriole collecting nesting material, a behavior that showcases its fascinating nesting habits. Bahama Orioles construct intricate, pouch-like nests by weaving together plant fibers, typically suspending them from the undersides of fronds. While they are well-known for nesting in introduced coconut palms, recent research has revealed that they also utilize native vegetation such as Caribbean pine trees and understory thatch palms. This adaptability demonstrates the species’ resilience and underscores the critical importance of conserving both native and anthropogenic habitats.

Buffy Flower Bat

Erophylla sezekorni

The Buffy Flower Bat (Erophylla sezekorni), found in The Bahamas and parts of the Caribbean, is a small yet vital player in tropical ecosystems. With its diet of nectar, pollen, and fruit, this unassuming bat is essential for the pollination of many native plant species. By dispersing seeds and aiding plant reproduction, the Buffy Flower Bat helps maintain healthy forests and biodiversity, showcasing its critical role in sustaining ecosystems.

These bats typically roost in caves but are also known to take shelter in hollow trees or abandoned buildings. At night, their foraging expeditions can cover long distances as they search for food. Unfortunately, habitat loss caused by deforestation, urbanization, and climate change threatens their survival. Roosting sites, especially caves, face destruction or disturbance from human activities, further jeopardizing bat populations.

National Parks, such as those managed by the BNT, play a significant role in protecting habitats for the Buffy Flower Bat. These parks preserve critical natural areas, such as caves and surrounding ecosystems, providing safe spaces for bats to roost and forage. In addition to habitat preservation, ongoing research and public education efforts by organizations like the Trust are crucial for helping people understand the ecological value of bats.

Photography offers a powerful way to shift public perception of bats from fear to appreciation. Images like the one I captured—showcasing the bat’s beauty and ecological importance—can inspire a deeper connection with these misunderstood creatures.

I had the opportunity to photograph the Buffy Flower Bat in Hatchet Bay Cave in Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera during my internship. The image captures a remarkable moment: a mother bat holding her baby, illustrating the species’ nurturing nature. Seeing these bats in their natural habitat was a profound experience, underscoring the importance of protecting the caves and ecosystems they rely on. Caves in places like Eleuthera serve as vital refuges, and safeguarding them is key to ensuring these bats' survival.

Conclusion

Photography has been more than just a passion for me; it has become a way to connect with nature and tell the stories of the remarkable species that call The Bahamas home.

Photography allows us to freeze moments that words alone cannot capture, a bird in flight, a parrot’s vibrant colors, an endangered iguana in a desolate landscape, or a bat nurturing its young. These images become windows into the lives of creatures that many people may never encounter, inviting them to appreciate and care about their survival. Through photography, we can inspire empathy, raise awareness about conservation efforts, and shift perspectives, turning fear or indifference into understanding and action.

Wildlife photography transcends borders, connecting a global audience to the wonders of the natural world. By portraying the beauty, complexity, and fragility of wildlife, I aim to inspire others to become ambassadors for conservation in their own unique ways. Each photograph I take is a step toward fostering a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of life on our planet and the urgent need to protect it.

As a wildlife photographer, I feel a deep responsibility to use my lens as a tool for advocacy, helping to protect the species that have inspired me. The Bahamas National Trust, through its dedication to preserving the country’s natural heritage, has shown how impactful conservation can be. It’s not just about protecting habitats or enforcing laws—it’s about fostering a connection between people and nature. My hope is that these images and stories spark that connection, encouraging others to see the importance of national parks and conservation and to play their part in ensuring that these species continue to thrive for generations to come. I am grateful to the BNT for its work and for the opportunity to participate in the CSM Internship.

My Favorite Moments from the 2024 Conservation Storytelling and Media Internship