3. Photograph 3

Sometimes birds also lose their nerves. This fascinating picture shows a side of sparrows that we hardly often see: a moment of vulnerability or apparent worry in these typically calm small birds. Usually shown as chirping, confident animals, sparrows—known for their adaptation and persistence in metropolitan settings—are But this picture catches one or maybe several sparrows in a way that seems out of line for their regular behavior. The bird(s) might be perched with an especially nervous attitude, feathers ruffled and out of place, or caught mid-flight in an awkward posture. The picture most certainly captures a near-miss with a predator, a split-second response to a loud noise, or an unanticipated incident in their surroundings. This rare window into the more frenetic side of sparrow life reminds us that stress or uncertainty strikes even the most apparently unassuming animals. This funny yet moving picture gives our knowledge of these ubiquitous birds more complexity and helps us to value the rich spectrum of emotions and reactions found in the animal realm.
4. Photograph 4

That kiss seems to be dangerously near. The picture in issue probably catches a heart-stopping moment between two creatures, producing an exciting and maybe frightening picture. The subjects may be a variety of animals, maybe two lions in a tense standoff with their faces just inches apart, or maybe a courageous (or stupid) smaller animal approaching nose-to—nose with a far larger predator. Here, the word “kiss” is used ironically since the animals’ proximity conveys anything but love. Rather, it presents a vision of a thin line separating curiosity from risk, or maybe a frozen moment in a high-stakes conflict. The photographer’s extraordinary ability to catch this brief moment lets viewers experience the intensity of the incident. In its audience, this picture probably elicits a spectrum of feelings: astonishment at the boldness of the creatures, worry about the possible conclusion, and respect of the unscripted drama of nature. It reminds us strongly of the thin line separating interaction from conflict in the animal realm, where every near contact can have major effects.
