23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Symbiosis

The carabao welcomes the presence of a cattle egret, since the cattle egret feeds on bothersome ectoparasites on its back. The cattle egret gets a meal by being on and around the carabao, who also stirs up insects on the ground as it forages.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 01.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: President Quirino, Philippines
Camera: NIKON Z 30
Copyright: © Redick Yacan