23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Guardian of the Transfagarasan

A bear along the Transfagarasan Road in Romania. Although encountering this majestic animal feels special, bears should not be near roads. Feeding them makes them lose their instincts and become dependent on humans - a situation that often ends tragically for both animals and people. Respecting wildlife means keeping a distance and allowing nature to remain wild.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Romania
Camera: NIKON Z 8
Copyright: © Agnieszka Wieczorek