23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Edge of Relief

In 120° Phoenix heat, a hummingbird pressed into my backyard fountain, closed its eyes, and stayed completely still to cool its body. In extreme temperatures, even a small stream of water becomes a critical lifeline for desert wildlife.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS R5
Copyright: © Beata Whitehead