23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Giant Gladiator

Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is one of few fully protected marine areas around Sydney. A shining light for marine conservation and ecotourism. Australian giant cuttlefish live short, brilliant lives. During breeding season rival males wage regular visual contests to establish dominance, by elongating their bodies, posing aggressively and lighting up their skin with vibrant flashing colours. This cuttlefish paused to pose after such a contest.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Sydney, Australia
Camera: ILCE-7RM5
Copyright: © Peter McGee