Singaporean otters are not just playful creatures; they can also be elegant performers, as proven by the captivating image captured by local otter watcher and wildlife photographer, Otter Kwek. In this year’s Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards, Kwek’s photograph titled “Otter Ballerina” claimed the runner-up position, showcasing the beauty of an otter’s unexpected dance in the heart of Bishan Park.
Otter Ballerina’s Graceful Dance
In the lush surroundings of Bishan Park on March 14, 2023, Otter Kwek seized a serendipitous moment, immortalizing an otter’s pirouette amidst swaying leaves. The photo, initially considered a “lucky shot,” eventually triumphed in the Creatures Under the Sea category, emphasizing the broad spectrum that includes not only fish but also mammals, amphibians, and reptiles dwelling in aquatic habitats.
From Lucky Shot to Comedy Wildlife Recognition
Kwek, known as “Otter Kwek” on Facebook, revealed that the winning snapshot was initially taken on a whim. Encouraged by a friend, he decided to submit it to the Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards. He describes the image of otter ballerina singapore as “a lucky shot” and the win as “thrilling and deeply humbling,” especially since it was his first time participating in a photography competition.
A Balletic Touch
Image from from Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards
Accompanying the submission was a description that added a balletic touch to the otter’s dance. The photographer shared a humorous anecdote, stating that a ballet teacher, upon seeing the photo, commented on the otter’s natural talent but suggested a slight adjustment to its posture, adding a delightful layer to the narrative.
Thrilled and Humbled
In an interview with Mothership, Kwek expressed his thrill and deep humility at winning in his first-ever photo competition. He says, “I am thrilled and deeply humbled” and describes the outcome as “unexpected.” He gives credit to the Zouk otters, known as the most urbanized otter family in Singapore, for being fantastic models and making the achievement possible.
Zouk Otters: Urbanized Stars of Singapore
The Zouk otters, stars in their own right, have been spotted at various iconic locations in Singapore, including Plaza Singapura, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, and near the Istana. Kwek, in a Facebook post, extended gratitude to these playful creatures for their coordination and natural charm, making them ideal subjects for his winning photograph.
Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards Highlights
Image from from Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards
The Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards, accepting entries from photographers globally, featured a diverse range of entries this year.
Image from from Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards
From greenfinches engaged in apparent arguments to a ground squirrel leaping into the air and a Western grey kangaroo playing an “air guitar,” the competition showcased the lighter side of wildlife. Kwek’s otter photo not only triumphed in its category but also secured the overall runner-up position in this year’s competition.
Image from from Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards
Otter Ballerina Singapore has not only brought recognition to Otter Kwek but has also highlighted the unexpected grace and charm of Singapore’s urban otters. The Comedy Wildlife Photographer Awards, with its diverse and amusing entries, continues to celebrate the lighter side of wildlife, reminding us of the beauty found in the most unexpected moments.
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