23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Hitchhikers
Out in the deep blue, larger animals can sometimes become an ecosystem all their own. These pilot fish hang close to this Olive Ridley turtle for protection and food scraps. The turtle was unusually relaxed, coming in close to the camera again and again to get a closer look. Perhaps it thought the camera was a jellyfish snack?
Photo Detail
| Date Taken: | 07.2025 |
| Date Uploaded: | 11.2025 |
| Photo Location: | Mexico |
| Camera: | Canon EOS R5 |
| Copyright: | © Brittany Ilardi |