23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Dancing Duality

At dawn on Hengam Island, I followed the calls of reef herons to the shore. This species is known for its rare dual color morphs — white and dark. The image captures their graceful flight, a quiet harmony in nature’s diversity.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2022
Date Uploaded: 10.2025
Photo Location: Qeshm, Iran
Camera: NIKON D850
Copyright: © Pooria Hatami