The Idea about this short environmental clip came from my last trip to Palawan, when the first rain and the Monsoon arrived for this season.

Running around in the rain at El Rio y Mar capturing the freshness of the vegetation around me, I decided later to put a few images together to create this clip called "WATER" using the Aperture 3 slideshow, Motion & GarageBand.
The actual rain sound was recorded on location with my Nikon D300s and mixed together with another soundtrack in GarageBand.

Motion and final assembly: In this case I used a template from Motion modified it and added the rain drop images.
(two images one with the drop and one without it)
After this was done I imported the Motion Clip and soundtrack into Aperture 3, added text plus photos... export and it was done.
GD

Also on:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG9DwR_tLIQ
Vimeo: http://www.vimeo.com/12789048

Dramatic skies, enchanting colors…
a tropical kaleidoscope.



© Gunther Deichmann - view from the Pier at El Rio y Mar,
Palawan Philippines

Oh… how I love this time of the year, the monsoon has finally arrived cooling things down a bit, a good time for some different photography.

© Gunther Deichmann - sunrise on the way to Calauit Island
Palawan Philippines

It started all on my last day on Dimakya Island, storm clouds rolled overhead, the first rain for this season had arrived. The day before on my way to Calauit Island we had painted skies at sunrise, an indication that things where about to change, great I thought.

You might think oh no…this bad weather is going to ruin everything…actually not, it is the other way around, well at least for me I just love this time of the year.
The ocean is so calm but the colors can be spectacular and lets face it we do need water, natures gift to man.

© Gunther Deichmann - near Club Paradise,
Palawan Philippines

© Gunther Deichmann - the Monsoon has arrived
Palawan Philippines

I said goodbye to Club Paradise and all those great people who made my stay so awesome, Dirk Fahrenbach from Dugong Dive Center and Juergen Warnke joined me for a short 20 min. boat ride to El Rio y Mar…which is just “around the corner.”

© Gunther Deichmann - arriving at El Rio y Mar,
Palawan Philippines

After my arrival I settled into my quarters (wow, these are very cool cottages) and had my usual cup of coffee first. Then I wondered around the Resort area which is nested in super healthy Mangroves, nature... again all around me.

© Gunther Deichmann - my home... sadly my stay was just to
short but I shall return. El Rio y Mar Palawan Philippines



© Gunther Deichmann - very healthy Mangroves just behind my
cottage during a tropical rain shower

Red Mangrove: Flowers of the red mangrove are fertilized and begin to develop.  The propagule or seedling, does not drop from the tree immediately, but continues to grow in place.  If there are no storms or other disturbances, the red mangrove seedling and its companions can advance the shoreline as they stabilize the soils beneath them.  In nature however, storms tend to keep the system in balance. 

© Gunther Deichmann - Human cutting of mangroves can cause severe erosion problems during major storms or tsunami. Mangroves are also a very important breeding ground for fish and other marine critters. Palawan has some very healthy Mangrove forest along its coastline.

I took it easy the first few hours, besides it was Sunday and now1:00 PM not a very good time to shoot anyway.
Then of a sudden... at 3:00PM all hell broke loose with a great tropical downpour, fantastic I thought, grabbed the umbrella and started to work at the Mangroves.

After about 45 minutes it was all over, the sky cleared up nicely with the clouds disappearing in the distance.

I went around the place and took some Photos of the Resort and at sunset I spotted this amazing dark cloud on the horizon in the bay. (see first photo above) Another wow left my lips before it went to dark and I got ready for our dinner at the pier.

© Gunther Deichmann - a cool night in tropical Paradise
El Rio y Mar, Palawan, Philippines

By now it was 7:00 PM and I thought…well that is it for today but then the big surprise…sorry folks you have to wait for this one…I promises in a couple of days you get to see it. My suspense again...

Unfortunately I could only stay one day in El Rio y Mar before hitting back to Manila, oh how I wished I could had extended my stay, but I shall return, a promise I will keep.

It was amazing how many photos I managed to take in such a short time, these are only a few on today’s post.
To top it all off, the image below was taken just 3 hours prior my departure, just after breakfast near the swimming pool area.

© Gunther Deichmann - Brown-throated Sunbird near the pool
area at El Rio y Mar, Palawan, Philippines

One thing is for sure if you travel to Palawan in the Philippines nature is all around you…as they say, it is the Philippines last frontier, but for me it is the lost Paradise or plain and simple Jurassic Park.
GD

Part 2...endemic wildlife has its home on
Dimakya Island, Palawan Philippines

© Gunther Deichmann - at sunset Fruit Bats from the
second colony take off into the sky.

The endemic wildlife of Palawan is just so amazing…and you don’t have to venture very far to encounter Birds, Anteaters, Porcupines, Deer, Lizards and Turtles you just need a little patience “walk and talk” quietly and you find them on Dimakya Island
Home of Club Paradise.
Note: All images have been processed using Aperture 3 using only RAW file image adjustments and cropping.
No manipulation in Photoshop.

© Gunther Deichmann - my home for four days...Club Paradise,
Palawan Philippines

We all know that the diving is just so amazing in this area, from shipwrecks to an unspoiled immaculate house reef right in front of your cottages. Where Turtles roam and Dugongs feed on the adjourning sea grass beds not to mention all those critters and tropical fish on the reef. A paradise for underwater Photographers.

However as mention before in Part 1, on my recent trip to Palawan I concentrated on the wildlife above the waves where another paradise was waiting for me…

© Gunther Deichmann - The Brown-throated Sunbird (Anthreptes malacensis), also known as the Plain-throated Sunbird, is a species of bird in the Nectariniidae family. It is found in a wide range of semi-open habitats in south-east Asia, ranging from Myanmar to the Lesser Sundas and west Philippines

My second and third day on the island was blessed with encounters of Herons, Pigeons, Calamine Deer and of course the ever presence of Flying foxes — or Fruit Bats, but this time from a different colony at the other end of the island. (see the photo above)

© Gunther Deichmann - luck was on my side when I wondered through the Resort, when I spotted these Herons right next to one of the Buildings. Entertaining me for a few moments before they took off in the undergrowth.

Rufous Night-Heron (Nycticorax caledonicus). The Rufous Night-Heron hunts for food during night time. They primarily eat small fish, crustaceans, frogs, aquatic insects, and small mammals. They live near bodies of water such as rivers, streams, marshes, seas and lagoons. They fly at dusk to their feeding ground producing a "kwok" sound.
Rufous Night-Heron can be easily identified if it's young or mature because of its distinct color. The juvenile changes its color from spotted and streaked brown into plain brown with a black cap on top of its head when it becomes an adult.

© Gunther Deichmann - I spotted this CALAMIAN DEER close to the natural lagoon Dimakya Island on my second day, just a minute stroll from my cottage.

CALAMIAN DEER (Axis calamianesis). The Calamian Deer is also known as the "hog deer". The name "hog deer" arises from its habit of crashing through the undergrowth with its head down like a pig, rather than leaping over obstacles as other deer do. Hog deer are heavy-set and compact, standing only about 28" high at the shoulder.

Calamian Deer is an endemic species restricted in the Palawan Faunal Region and is considered endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). They are found in the Calamianes Islands, Northern Palawan. Axis deer in general take readily to water and are said to be good swimmers. They are predominantly grazers, and they eat also fallen flowers and fruits of forest trees.

Of course my stay was way to short to capture all the endemic species like the Scaly Anteater or Pangolin, some of the Owls (I certainly heard them at night) and many other Bird species. I guess I have to make another trip and catch up with some of the other animals that have eluded me on this visit.

I also traveled to Calauit the famous Island with its African introduced species, but my report from this part of Palawan has to wait a bit, lets just concentrate on some of the Philippine endemic wildlife first.

© Gunther Deichmann - this photograph was taken on Calauit Island during my recent visit to Palawan. Deforestation has greatly reduced its numbers and the Philippine Bearcat is on the endangered species list

The Binturong (Arctictis binturong), also known as the Asian Bearcat, the Palawan Bearcat, or simply the Bearcat, is a species of the family Viverridae, which includes the civets and genets.
It is the only member of its genus. The binturong is neither a bear nor a cat, and the real meaning of the original name has been lost, as the local language that gave it that name is now extinct. Its natural habitat is in trees of forest canopy in rainforest.

It is nocturnal and sleeps on branches. It eats primarily fruit, but also has been known to eat eggs, shoots, leaves, and small animals, such as rodents or birds.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binturong

© Gunther Deichmann - photo of Palawan Porcupine was taken on Calauit Island during my recent visit to Palawan.

The Philippine Porcupine (Hystrix pumila), or the Indonesian Porcupine or the Palawan Porcupine, is a species of rodent in the Hystricidae family (Old World porcupines). It is endemic to the island of Palawan in the Philippines. Common Name: PALAWAN PORCUPINE Scientific Name: Hystrix pumila Local Name: Durian / Landak
Conservation Status: Apparently stable, but these species are reported to be persecuted by farmers as pests in coconut plantations.A locally common to uncommon species found in primary and secondary forest in the mountains and in the lowlands.

This species also prefer caves, but are commonly found under tree buttresses or in rock crevices.It is an endemic species restricted in the Palawan Faunal Region. It has been recorded in the islands of Busuanga, Calauit, Coron, and on the Mainland at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and the forested areas of El Nido.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_Porcupine

For the 3rd part I share with you some of the cool cloud formations, sunrise & sunsets that occur this time of the year…the onset of the monsoon and my favorite travel time, so please stay tuned for Part 3.

Just one more...
jumping with joy in Paradise.



© Gunther Deichmann - Club Paradise,
Palawan Philippines


Please Note: A Photo Workshop in Paradise - Oct 29-Nov 1

PHOTOGRAPHY LESSONS IN PALAWAN: Learn from the Pro. in conjunction with the Power Mac Center
Four days of fun and learning travel photography..exploring nature's beauty in Palawan
Amateurs and semi-pro (max 8 participants) please book this one early.
For more info pls. contact:

Email: 
workshops@powermaccenter.com
tutorial@powermaccenter.com

2/L Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center Paseo de Roxas Avenue, Makati City, Philippines 
Tel: 7297087
3/L TriNoma, Edsa cor North Ave. Quezon City
Tel: 9013981

For other Workshops in 2010 plus Cambodia and Nepal please go to:
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/gdphotoworkshop/page1/calendar.html

Jurassic Park? No... Club Paradise
Palawan Philippines - Part 1



© Gunther Deichmann - like... Jurassic Park..."Flying Foxes"
Fruit Bats & a Heron on Dimakya Island

Part 1:
All Photographs on this Blog Post taken the very first day (actually half a day, I arrived about 11:00 AM) on Dimakya Island
Watch out for part 2 & 3 more nature and interesting animals soon to follow on my Blog...plus a cool marine creature taken during our dinner at the Pier of El Rio y Mar...ha, ha my suspense again. Don't you love it!

I returned last night from Palawan the last Frontier in the Philippines...Nature at its best. The past week my Blog posts have been very thin and I didn't bring my MacBook Pro this time either...just the cameras and plenty CF Cards.

I knew if I had brought my Laptop the nights would have been very long, spending hours sorting the photos on Aperture 3 and having non or very little time for my good buddy Dirk Fahrenbach, plus Juergen Warnke was on the Island too this time.
Spending quality time with friends in "Jurassic Park" for a change...plus Aperture 3 worked so well that I am almost done with the editing the day after my return.

I left Manila on a Cebu Pacific flight to Busuanga and after about 50 minutes arrived at the new Busuanga Airport, wow things have really changed since my last visit here. I had been to Club Paradise before but that was many moons ago, so it was interesting to find out what changes had taken place besides the new airport. After a short jeepney ride I boarded the Boat from Club Paradise for Dimakya Island.

© Gunther Deichmann - arrived on Dimakya Island Home of
Club Paradise & Dugong Dive Center
Palawan, Philippines

Located on Dimakya Island and also the Home of my good friend Dirk Fahrenbach from Dugong Dive Center. Dimakya Island undoubtedly one of Asia’s Eden, the Philippine’s Last Frontier and the Calamianes group of Islands is perhaps one of the world's best-kept secrets among travel destinations and at the same time the Home of Club Paradise.


The Resort had also undergone some facilities changes including a Spa and the Dugong Dive Center is offering now some Liveaboards trips to APO Reef and other areas.
The islands house reef is world famous for its marine life and is frequently visited by Dugongs, as a matter of fact this season has seen a record number of these amazing animals right in front of the Resort... a divers paradise without a doubt.

Within few minutes of my arrival I spotted the Flying Foxes having the their usual midday rest...hanging upside down in the trees right next to the Resort. Oh this is great!
I checked into my cottage located right on the beach, changed into something more comfortable before setting off for a little exploratory walk with Dirk to the other side of the Island...but first we had a nice cup of coffee and a good chat...

Dirk...GD... some diving too? Absolutely NOT! What? Are you sick? No... I am going to have some fun running around in the Jungle and heat finding these other creatures almost everybody seems to forget about.
...there are plenty great shots of Dugongs and marine critters by good Underwater Photographers already, besides our good friend and excellent underwater photographer Tony Wu is going to visit you next year anyway and he is getting all those great underwater shots. As for me... I am getting sweaty and dirty trying to find some endemic animals on this beautiful island.
Dirk...GD you're crazy...yep I know!

Ok.,OK...but may be in a couple of days Dirk commented with a grin... sorry Buddy not this time. However in the evening I am having a couple of drinks with you. Dirk...I don't believe it....you left your computer at home...yes my friend, otherwise no drinks later...Dirk...oh I get it now...!

© Gunther Deichmann - A Monitor Lizard cooling off in the Lagoon on the Island, he was my very first encounter on day one. I followed him around for about 2 hours trying to get the perfect shot of him in his natural environment.

© Gunther Deichmann - Abstract reflections of nature in the lagoon. A natural attractant to wetland inhabitants and visitors, thus, wildlife around the lagoon area (such as herons, bulbuls and kingfishers) continues to inhabit the island. The climax vegetation and the hills are also preserved in their natural state. These areas provide habitat to other birds which area displaced in the flatlands.

© Gunther Deichmann - Just one more my "friendly" but very shy
Monitor Lizard in the Lagoon on the Island

© Gunther Deichmann - my lucky day... the Dugong Dive Center still had some hatchlings before their release, a great opportunity for me to get some shots at sunset.The Turtle protection program on the island is a joint effort between the staff and management from Club Paradise and Dugong Dive Center http://www.dugongdivecenter.com/turtle_program.html

The resort has engaged in an active tagging program for marine turtles to study their habitat range. From February to October 1991, 12 marine turtles were tagged using the markers from Pawikan Conservation Project of the DENR.

© Gunther Deichmann - Painted Sky - the end of day one...& what a day it was in Paradise.
A few more days and more exotic nature will follow, so please stay tuned for Part 2 and 3.

Before I am signing off today, (only today, plenty to come yet) a special thanks to all the staff and Management at Club Paradise & El Rio y Mar and of course to Dirk Fahrenbach and his staff from Dugong Dive Center.
Until soon...Save and Protect our Environment!
GD

“Hot & Sour Coca Cola”...
recycling our Plastic?



© Gunther Deichmann - recycled Coca Cola Bottles
now used for local made Vinegar, Philippines.

I guess it is recycling...sort off... our plastic by-products at least for the Bottles, but when it comes to the sheer number of plastic bags then we are way behind the disposal.
During my Travel I come across a lot of weird and crazy things, like in Cambodia where they use Plastic Bottles for Gasoline along the country road (see the photo below) a favorite image from my Facebook Friend Steve Galano, it was actually Steve who requested some more of these type of images.

© Gunther Deichmann - recycled Coca Cola Bottles now used for
local made Vinegar with Chili, Philippines

Here you go Steve as promised; on my way home the other day from Batangas in the Philippines I spotted these Coca Cola Bottles along the road containing some with Vinegar others with Vinegar and Chili, what amazed me the Coca Cola labels where in perfect condition and made me think...

I am sure after all the Coca Cola had gone they must have cleaned these Bottles before re-using them for what ever concoction they had in mind. Did they get a supply of new labels from the Bottling Plant or maybe they just took good care during the cleaning process. Who knows?

© Gunther Deichmann - recycled Coca Cola Bottles now
used for Gasoline, Siem Reap Cambodia

The real issue is our disposal of Plastic, the culprit the plastic bags...we have to stop using them!
I remember when I ventured deep into Arnhem Land in Australia visiting remote Aboriginal tribes, the first thing I noticed where the ugly blue and pink plastic bags thrown around all over the settlement. That was way back in the in the eighties, it could be worst now. We introduced the Aboriginals to this ugly menace, before we came along they used bags made out of degradable materials from mother nature.

© Gunther Deichmann - local Children at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
collecting plastic. Why can’t the tourist take their own trash home?

Or lets take all those plastic bags which get thrown overboard by ships only to be found later in stomachs of dead Turtles which they mistakenly took for their natural food, the jelly fish...and not only Turtles!
These photos of plastic Coca Cola Bottles are some form of “Recycling”... but not nearly enough what we should do... Stop using Plastic Bags!
GD

Dermot Keane Founder of the Palau Shark Sanctuary and
President Toribiong a few hours ago at the Palau International Airport.

Sam Scott from Sam’s Tours, Ron Leidich from Planet Blue, Scotty from the Palau Conservation Society are only a few whom I have known personally. Believing in something and taken it to the finishing line is not always easy, of course President Toribiong did the last sprint and announced the first Shark Sanctuary in the World at the United Nations in New York on the 25th of September 2009. I am sure it was not easy for him either to take this stance, but he did and that is fantastic.
My involvement with the Shark Sanctuary goes way back, as a matter of fact many moons ago, but that is not important now, what is important that this tiny Nation in the Pacific set an example for the rest of the World and I sincerely hope that others will follow.

A warm welcome to the President of Palau
at the International Airport a few hours ago.

Congratulations again to the President of Palau and all those others who have worked so hard behind the scene in achieving this amazing Goal, I am proud of you all.
See below the just released (only a few hours ago) Press Release from Dermot Keane from the Shark Sanctuary in Palau.

For Immediate Release:
KOROR, PALAU, 9/28/2009, 7:45 p.m.

Palau President H.E. Johnson Toribiong arrived home moments ago to a hero’s welcome at Koror International Airport, Palau. The founder of Palau Shark Sanctuary, Dermot Keane, Managing Director of Palau dive shop Sam’s Tours, was on hand to greet the President and thanked him for declaring Palau a Shark Sanctuary.
 
The large welcome committee included grateful members of the Palauan community who greeted President Toribiong with flower leis and loud applause upon his arrival. Palauans are understandably proud of their President who declared Palau as a Shark Sanctuary during his recent address to the United Nations, General Assembly, on Friday, September 25, 2009.

Despite his long journey from Washington D.C. to Palau, the President was clearly moved by the warm reception and graciously thanked everyone for showing up to welcome him. Palau Shark Sanctuary once again thanks and admires President Toribiong for his landmark declaration of Palau as a Shark Sanctuary.

Palau Shark Sanctuary was founded in 2001 with a goal of securing a declaration by Palau that the waters of their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are a Shark Sanctuary.
For more information visit: www.sharksanctuary.com   or  www.sharksanctuary.blogspot.com

The tiny Nation of Palau has taken the first step...

No more... © Gunther Deichmann - Archive Image published as the Photo of the week in Stern Magazine and other world wide publication last year. Today Palau declared the first World Shark Sanctuary at the United Nations.

The Image above that made headlines around the world, but NOT from Palau. The tiny Micronesian Nation setting an example for the rest of the world. My respect and congratulation to President Johnson Toribiong and the Government of Palau for taken this unprecedented step in the conservation of our endangered sharks.
I sincerely hope that other Nation will follow and stop this cruel and inhumane killing of our Sharks, I am very proud to be associated with Palau and its conservation policies.
Check out the Palau Shark Sanctuary Website at: http://www.sharksanctuary.com/index.html
GD

Breaking News and a breakthrough in Conservation
from Palau Micronesia! Palau Does Care!


© Gunther Deichmann - aerial over the famous 70 islands in Palau, for more
images on Palau please visit my PhotoShelter Gallery at:
Gallery 1 Gallery 2 aerials Gallery 3 aerials

Palau President Toribiong has announced only a few hours ago at the UN in New York that Palau is the first WORLD SHARK SANCTUARY ! This is a milestone in the conservation and preservation of Sharks in Palau, setting an example for the rest of the World. More information and updates as they become available soon.

The original message:
Just been advised that Palau President Johnson Toribiong will announce in 30 minutes at the UN Conference in New York that Palau is the first WORLD SHARK SANCTUARY !!!!!!!!!!! 

© Gunther Deichmann - aerial over the famous 70 islands in Palau, for more
images on Palau please visit my PhotoShelter Gallery at: Marine Life

Excerpts from the announcement by President Johnson Toribiong;
As many as 100 million sharks are killed each year around the world."These creatures are being slaughtered and are perhaps at the brink of extinction unless we take positive action to protect them," said President Toribiong.
Other related LINKS:

http://www.palautours.com/

http://www.palautours.com/blog.html

http://www.sharksanctuary.com/index.html

http://sharksanctuary.blogspot.com/

Just one more...
this disturbing article just came in from the BBC.


© Gunther Deichmann - Flying foxes over a patch of Rainforest
in the Northern Territory Australia.

Is this the last image of thousands of Flying Foxes, known also as Fruit Bats?
A sight that I will never forget, but what about our Children?

I took this Photograph many years ago while flying back in a Helicopter from Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory Australia.

See the article below from the BBC
By Judith Burns
Science and environment reporter, BBC News

Scientists are urging the government of Malaysia to ban the hunting of the world's largest fruit bat.
Researchers say the large flying fox will be wiped out on the Malaysian peninsula if the current unsustainable level of hunting continues.
Writing in the Journal of Applied Ecology they say around 22,000 of the animals are legally hunted each year and more killed illegally.
They say the species could be extinct there by as early as 2015.
Complete article and Photos @
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8221132.stm

© Gunther Deichmann - Calendar shoot with Camels,
Rainbow Valley Central Australia

Yes, there are lots of Camels Down Under roaming the Desert, they had been introduced in the mid 19th Century to help the early Explorers to traverse the vast outback.

Why Déjà vu ?


© Gunther Deichmann - Camel Skeleton
in Central Australia

In the past I covered many stories for international magazines and reported on the in humane killing of Horses, Buffalos and Camels.
I was also involved with a research group over the years studying the Camels in Central Australia, fitting them with radio transmitters. This research team had spend years studying these animals due to their uniqueness and pure breed, compare to their cousins in Afghanistan or in the middle east.
The Australian wild Camels have never been domesticated, roaming the vast desert regions of Australia, the largest population can be found in the Simpson Desert.

Gunther Deichmann - Wild Camels in the Simpson Desert the yellow flowers
are only appear after a rare rain storm Central Australia

Yes, there is a problem with introduced species and they are threatening our endemic wildlife. But if a new culling of Camels is to be done, it should be in a human way and not like before leaving wounded animals to a slow and horrific death.
Culling had been carried out before shooting Camels, Buffalos and Horses from Helicopters, these are difficult and moving targets, leaving the animals wounded for days, suffering a slow and painful death.

Gunther Deichmann - Wild Camels in the Simpson Desert Central Australia

Some years ago Australia exported Camels back to Saudi Arabia, they are the purest breeds left in the world. Why not now?
Or as Animal welfare groups suggesting; birth control, giving animals a drug to render them infertile, another more humane alternative.
Please THINK, before the same mistakes been made again!
GD

See below a recent report from the BBC:

The Australian government has proposed a budget to implement a long-standing plan to cull the country's camels by shooting them.
Animal welfare supporters reject the plan, but people sharing the outback with the camels call them a menace.
Unlike the kangaroo or koala, the camel is not an animal automatically associated with Australia.
They were first brought there in the mid-19th Century to help explorers traverse the desert.
But there are now thought to be more than one million roaming the outback.
That is roughly one camel for every 20 people, and the population is set to double over the next decade unless some form of action is taken.
In remote communities they are seen as a troublesome menace, trampling vegetation and occasionally ripping up water pipes, as they search for food and water.
So the Australian government has set aside $16m (£9.7m) to contain the problem and one proposal is to shoot the camels from helicopters or on foot.
Animal welfare groups are opposed to a mass slaughter.
They have suggested another more humane alternative: birth control, giving animals a drug to render them infertile. Read more @ http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/2038834.stm

A special report from Ayers Rock, Australia.


© Gunther Deichmann - Ayers Rock Central Austtralia ”The last Climb?” Tourists on the way to the top, hanging on to the provided chain sparkeling like silver in the early morning. As the sun rises higher this amazing effect disappears within minutes.

Recent News reports have indicated that in the foreseen future the climbing of Ayers Rock in Central Australia will be banned. But do we have to climb Ayers Rock to get our images?

The question is? Will this affect the tourist arrivals? In my opinion I don’t think so, I can’t remember how many times I visited this remarkable place in the Australian Outback and never had the urge to climb it. I could have easy done so, but for me the real beauty lies in the surrounding areas and Ayers Rock from below. The sunset and sunrise, the ever-changing colors have drawn me into the spell of this huge Monolith over and over again.
I have seen very young and old trying to make the trip to the top, taken chances of getting seriously injured.

© Gunther Deichmann - Aerial view of Ayers Rock,
Central Australia, Photo from a fixed wing aircraft.

I have also noticed similar climbing attempts at Angkor Wat in Cambodia too, watching tourist climbing the ancient ruins makes my hair stand up, soon very soon there be a major accident, not to mention the environmental impact it is having on this ancient and fragile architectural Wonder.

© Gunther Deichmann - A rare shot of a Centralian
Knob-Tailed Gecko (Nephrurus amyae)
lickining his eyes to keep them moist.

Few reptiles have the same appeal as the knob-tailed gecko. The tiny tail ending in a little round knob about half the size of a pea, the large beautifully patterned eyes and the face displaying a permanent smile all contribute to the character of this little lizard. The centralian knob-tail is the largest of the group reaching a total length of over 15cm, of which the tail comprises no more than about 3cm.
More info @ http://www.reptilepark.com.au/animals.asp?catID=13&ID=92


For me Ayers Rock is very much a spiritual place where I can sit back and let the colors play in front of me, thinking about the Aboriginal Dream Time and how it must have been thousands of years ago, a place we should all respect and treasure.

© Gunther Deichmann - the changing moods of Ayers Rock, Central Australia

View more of my Australian Images on my PhotoShelter Gallery.


Here are some useful Government information on permits, how to get there etc.
Visitor information:
http://www.environment.gov.au/parks/uluru/visitor-information/index.html

Commercial image capture (photography, filming, and artistic representation)
http://www.environment.gov.au/parks/permits/uluru-media.html

Read below excerpts from articles I have collected from various News sources.
Just the accidents alone over the years should make one think, plus the environmental impact and respect for the traditional Aboriginal owners.
GD

Excerpts:
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has called for an end to people climbing the 348m-high rock, sacred to indigenous people, as part of a 10-year draft plan.
The issue sparked immediate debate over the future of the climb, which is seen by many as a draw card for many of the 350,000 tourists who visit the rock each year.
The Prime Minister has come out against a ban, saying it would be "very sad" if tourists were denied the chance.
But other arguments are that the wishes of traditional owners had been ignored for too long.

© Gunther Deichmann - The Thorny Devil is on average about 20 cms long,
and feed on a wide variety of ants. They catch them by using their tongue much
the same as an ant-eater would do. Animal Fact: If rain lands on the Thorny Devils
back, it runs down the creature finding its way to its mouth where it is consumed.
More info @ http://www.australianfauna.com/thornydevil.php

Some 35 people have died while scaling the rock.
THE Uluru climb is almost certain to be closed, probably in about two years.
Parks Australia has called for public comment on a plan to ban tourists clambering up the 348m rock.
The plan runs for 10 years.
But Parks Australia dropped strong hints that Uluru would be closed to climbers sooner rather than later.
The comment period closes in early September.
A final document will then be sent to the Federal Government, which controls the national park.
The tourism industry would then be given at least 12 months to adjust their marketing campaigns.
That means The Rock could be closed by October 1 in 2011, the start of the hot season in Central Australia.

Three main reasons for banning climbers:

SAFETY - 35 people died in the 25 years to the year 2000, but none have died since climbing restrictions were introduced;
ENVIRONMENTAL damage - the sandstone rock suffers erosion and human waste is washed down into waterholes by rain;
CULTURE - traditional owners don't like people climbing over something they consider sacred.
Tourism Central Australia commented, tour operators were divided over whether the climb should be scrapped, some companies had not advertised the climb for years.

But others said many tourists would not to go to Uluru if they weren't allowed to climb.
The Territory Government said it opposed banning climbing.
For a copy of the plan go to:
www.environment.gov.au/parks/publications/uluru/draft-plan.html

Some Ayers Rock Facts:
Ayers Rock is located in the middle of Australia, in fact very close to the actual geographical centre. Geographical coordinates: 25°20'41" S, 131°01'57" E.
Ayers Rock Resort is 443 km (275 miles) from Alice Springs by road, or 45 minutes by air. (From the resort it's another 8 km to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park entrance, and a further 10 km to Ayers Rock.)

Ayers Rock is not the world's largest monolith. This title belongs to Mt Augustus in Western Australia. Uluru is 348 meters (1141 feet) high, 3.6 km long (2.2 miles), 1.9 km wide (1.2 miles),9.4 km or 5.8 miles around the base (that's walking),covers 3.33 km2 (1.29 miles2),extends about several km/miles into the ground, it is not exactly known how far (despite the numbers you might have read).

Ayers Rock is Arkose, a course-grained sandstone rich in feldspar at least 2.5 km thick. Uplifting and folding between 400-300 million years ago turned the sedimentary layers nearly 90 degrees to their present position. The surface has then been eroded.
Depending on the time of day and the atmospheric conditions the rock can dramatically change color, anything from blue to glowing red ! Many avid photographers set up for days and record the many changing colors of Uluru.

Read more: http://www.outback-australia-travel-secrets.com/ayers-rock-facts.html

Or @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uluru

A Special & exclusive Travel Report from Palau Micronesia,
& if you visit Palau make sure you don’t forget your Camera.


© Gunther Deichmann - just relaxing... awesome Palau Waterfall

Palau the hidden Crown Jewel in the Pacific…never heard about it? About time we introduce you to one of the most charming places on Earth… some call it… the forgotten Paradise!
Palau has been in the NEWS lately with the Detainees from Guantánamo Bay, Discovery Channel or the French Survivor Series, produced only recently on the Islands.
Why only now everybody is talking about it? I guess some of them have seen the sheer beauty now and come to realize its amazing ecosystem, seldom found anywhere else on this Planet.

© Gunther Deichmann - aerial of the Rock Islands

I have been traveling to Palau the past 15 years and I still cant get enough of its beauty above and below the waves. Quoted as one, if not the Best Dive destination in the world.
Like a child in a candy shop, I am like that every time I travel to Palau, discovering new things all the time…it is just awesome.

© Gunther Deichmann - watch Turtles swim by, Blue Corner Palau


© Gunther Deichmann - colors below the waves, Blue Corner

The information below is courtesy of Palautours.com containing information how to get there and a very brief inside of this truly remarkable place. For all our Camera enthusiast we highly recommend Sam’s Tour’s Digital Photo Center which is fully equipped with iMac Computers and state of the art Software like Aperture, plus an in-house Video facility operated by award-winning High Definition Underwater Filmmaker and Digital Video Producer, Dr. Nick Martorano, Ph.D.
GD

© Gunther Deichmann - “arriving in Palau”

There are many ways to get to Palau and flying direct is not always the most economical or timely method. Many guests that fly in from the states catch a flight out of L.A. or San Francisco to Japan and then catch a flight from Japan to Guam (there are multiple flights a day from Japan flying into Guam) and then Guam to Palau. The use of frequent flyer miles is also available, remember to book early or have a great travel agent if you are trying to go that route.
Continental Micronesia is the major airline of Micronesia and flies into Palau 6 days a week: 2 times a day on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays; and once a day on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. (Please note: these schedules are subject to change it is advisable to check with your airlines first)
They have service from Guam 6 days a week, with connections to and from Yap on Wednesdays and Sundays. There is service to and from Palau from Manila, Philippines (this seems to be the best way to travel to Palau from Asia or Europe); twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays. There is service to and from Kaoshiung and Taipei, Taiwan on Tuesdays and Saturdays; and service to and from Taipei, Taiwan on Thursdays and Sundays on Far Eastern Air Transport (or FAT Airline). Japan Airlines (JAL) has flights to and from Palau twice a month.

Palau offers you the world's most beautiful tropical paradise. Famous for its diving, Palau is rated as one of the world's best diving destinations by scuba aficionados. And why not...Palau has unspoiled reefs, caves, and walls with the most amazing array of marine life you can ever imagine.

© Gunther Deichmann - get close to Marine life.

Palau beckons to you with some of the world's most
awesome natural wonders.

Imagine the whitest beaches you will ever see, gardens of coral just beneath the clearest waters, lakes filled to the brim with "sting less" jellyfish. Forests, waterfalls and caves that have never been ravaged by man, and hundreds of islands of the purest beauty abound all along our pristine archipelago.

© Gunther Deichmann - swim with jelly fish and not getting stung.

Palau beckons to you with some of the world's most awesome natural wonders. Imagine the whitest beaches you will ever see, gardens of coral just beneath the clearest waters, lakes filled to the brim with "sting less" jellyfish.

© Gunther Deichmann - hire a Helicopter and get a Birds-eye View.

Palau. To many the name conjures up images of lush jungles atop mushroom-shaped limestone islands surrounded by turquoise waters so abundant with life that it is nearly impossible to ingest it all. With magnificent reefs that contain over 1300 species of fish and 400 species of coral, it is no surprise that it is recognized as one of the best and most consistent places to see a huge diversity and abundance of both small tropical fish and large pelagic predators.

© Gunther Deichmann - Explore amazing Palau by Kayaks

There are several reasons for Palau's diversity of life, particularly the marine life, with some of the major factors being the variety of habitats and reef structures as well as its location. Between the coastal mangroves of Babeldaob and the outer reef walls of the Ngemelis and Pelelui, exists an extensive shallow and deep water lagoon containing limestone islands, sheltered marine lakes, and narrow passages that provide a mixture of different habitats that support a variety of fish and coral. Further, the ranges of reef structures, from sheer vertical walls to underwater caves provide numerous places for species to live. If the diversity of habitats in Palau is poised to accommodate a terrific amount of marine life, its location is the reason that much of the marine life made it here in the first place. Palau resides just outside of the ‘Coral Triangle' an area recognized as the center of marine biodiversity and has three major bodies of water converge on the island. To the east is the Pacific Ocean, to the west the Philippine Sea, and to the south, the Celebes Sea.

© Gunther Deichmann - paradise is waiting for YOU.

As the Pacific Ocean, the Philippine and Celebes Seas circulate, the potential to bring larva of coral, fish, and invertebrates to Palau from different parts of the Indo-Pacific region is very high.

© Gunther Deichmann -have your own Island

Terrestrially, Palau has one of the most diverse assemblages of flora and fauna in Micronesia The different geology, predominantly the limestone Rock Islands and the large volcanic main island of Babeldaob provide excellent substrate for a diverse number of trees, plants, birds, and reptiles. There are over 1250 species of plants, 140 species of birds (including 8 endemic species), and 50 species of amphibians and reptiles (including the largest reptile, the Saltwater Crocodile, (Crocodylus porosus ). With all of the diversity in Palau , both above and below the water, it will amaze even the most seasoned naturalist.

© Gunther Deichmann - enjoy the Spa at the Palau Pacific Resort.


© Gunther Deichmann - see You soon in Palau Micronesia.

See pages after pages with stunning images and information on Palau @ http://www.palautours.com/
You can Check also with the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA) for more local information once you have arrived in Palau.
For an Birds-eye view of Palau check out Palau Helicopters @ http://www.palautours.com/palauheli-other.html

Endemic wildlife under threat!



© Gunther Deichmann - Aerial photo: Thousands of Magpie Geese on the
Flood Plains near Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia.


© Gunther Deichmann - Whistling Ducks, Kakadu National Park

The Cane Toad is posing a serious threat to Australia’s endemic Wildlife.

During my days when I roamed around in Kakadu National Park some 25 years ago there where NO Cane Toads, now they have invaded this rich in wildlife ecosystem. In recent years they have not stopped and now moving towards north-western Australia invading the Kimberley region too.
Freshwater Crocodiles and a unique type of pygmy crocodile found only in Australia could be wiped out by the dreaded cane toad unless prompt action is taken, zoologists have warned.
Just two populations of the endangered pygmy freshwater crocodile are known to exist, both of them in the country's tropical north. The crocodiles are at risk because they prey on cane toads and then die from the amphibians' highly toxic skin. Isolated in remote rivers and creeks by waterfalls and steep sandstone escarpments, they are about half the size of normal freshwater crocs.

© Gunther Deichmann - Australian Freshwater Crocodile
(Image showing a true gallop), fighting for survival.

“Thanks” to the introduction of Cane Toads to Australia in August 1936. We’re tried to solve a problem… but created a much bigger one.
The idea was to eradicate the grey back cane beetle pests, now the cane toad is considered a pest and invasive species in many of its introduced regions because its toxic skin kills many native predators when ingested.
It has also many negative effects on farmers because of pets and animals eating the creatures.
The cane toad has poison glands, and the tadpoles are highly toxic to most animals if ingested. Because of its voracious appetite, the cane toad has been introduced to many regions of the Pacific and the Caribbean islands as a method of agricultural pest control, notably failing in the case of Australia in 1935, and derives its common name from its use against the grey back cane beetle pests.

All creatures small and big have the right for their existence on this planet, but the Cane Toad does not belong in Australia, STOP interfering with mother nature.





All images © Gunther Deichmann - from left: Sea Eagle, Jabiru black-necked Stork
Tree Snake, large Goanna in front of Termite mounds

A Queensland study showed more than a 50% decline in Gould’s goanna numbers over a seven-month period coincident with the arrival and build up of cane toad numbers.
A fauna survey in Kakadu showed that Gilbert’s dragon and all goanna species significantly declined following cane toad invasion.
Frog-eating snakes in general are susceptible to impacts. These include the northern death adder, western brown snake and red-bellied black snake. There are also numerous reports of freshwater crocodiles dying after eating cane toads in northern Queensland and the Northern Territory. Some water fowls are also no exceptions including the White Breasted Sea eagle.
GD

CANE TOAD FACTS
Cane toads are expanding their range across Northern Australia faster than ever expected, and have been recorded moving up to 20km in just a few weeks.

They have reached the western part of the Northern Territory, and without intervention, are expected to reach the east Kimberley region of Western Australia in one to three years time.

Cane toads need water to survive. With only a relatively narrow band of non-arid country between the eastern Kimberley and the Top End of the Northern Territory, suitable cane toad habitat funnels down to such a relatively small ‘land bridge’ that there is a unique opportunity to slow and hopefully halt their march westwards across Northern Australia.
Since its original introduction the cane toad has had a particularly marked effect on Australian biodiversity.

Cane Toad Research

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cane_toad

The Australian Aboriginals call it…
”Children of the Lightning Man”

Years ago during a Photography excursion into a remote part of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory of Australia I encountered a very rare and strange looking Insect. It was during the month of November just before the onset of the wet season, camping over night at this small rock outcrop, when I got the urge for “natures call.”

I squatted behind some rocks and as I looked up I spotted this bizarre Insect, but not just one, a dozen or so brightly colored orange Grasshoppers covering the small plant right in front of me.
Wow… I hurried up… run back to the campsite and grabbed my Camera. My first approach was very slow, scared that I would spook them, but then to my amazement the Grasshoppers would not move at all, they just sat there like wax figurines.

© Gunther Deichmann - the rare Leichardt Grasshopper
from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, Australia

Once I had my shots, I started to realize that this maybe something very special, sure enough, after my return to Darwin I showed the one specimen, I had collected to the Curator of the Northern Territory Museum.
Gunther - this is the very rare Leichardt Grasshopper he said with excitement, they are only found in remote parts of the Northern Territory there have been no sightings for hundred years.

It's named after the explorer, Ludwig Leichhardt who reported great numbers of them as he crossed the Arnhem Land plateau in 1845.
Leichhardt's Grasshopper is bright red, blue and orange. Its strong colors are a defense against predators which works so well that this little grasshopper has Attitude - often it doesn't even bother to fly away when predators approach, exactly what happen when I took the Photos that morning.

© Gunther Deichmann - left: deep inside Arnhem Land, it is here where you can find the Leichardt Grasshopper, if you lucky. right: tribal Aborigines retouching ancient rock art in Arnhem Land, Australia

Normally I leave animals where I find them and don’t interfere with nature, but in this case the Curator thanked me for bringing in just one specimen for research, it was after all about 100 years later.
I have more images but those are tucked away in archives with my international agency Picture Press in Germany.
For the Australian Aboriginals the Grasshopper has a very special meaning, the Jawoyn and Gundjeibmi people of Western Arnhem Land call the grasshopper Alyurr, children of the Lightning Man Namarrgon. A powerful ancestral being, this is evident in the Rock art through out the Arnhem Land Escarpment.
GD

© Gunther Deichmann - Take off... Australian Freshwater Crocodile
(Crocodylus johnstoni)moving at high speed towards a Billabong.
Photo from the mid seventies.

The other day I went through my Archives looking for a particular image when I came across my series on Australian Freshwater Crocodiles. (Crocodylus johnstoni) I remember that time I went out with Professor Dr Graham Webb an expert on Australian Crocodiles collecting data deep inside the Australian Bush in the Northern Territory. Spending days on end camping at Billabongs catching, tagging and releasing these truly amazing Reptiles for research and conservation.

© Gunther Deichmann - One of the very first images showing a true gallop.
Australian Freshwater Crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni)
Photo from the mid seventies.

It was during this project that we discovered that the Crocodile (not only the Freshwater one) displays a true Gallop, movements just like a Horse, not known previously until this research by Dr. Graham Webb.
The images on todays Blog and many other where most likely the very first showing Crocodiles in a full Gallop, amazing and thrilling times long gone but not forgotten. At the time they where published in a various magazines.

The Black & White Images are from one of those trips, the originals had been shot on Kodachrome film, afterwards or I should say many years later I scanned the slides, now the digital images residing in my archives. By the way this was long before my Nikon days using the X700 Minolta bodies and lenses.

© Gunther Deichmann - Lift off...Australian Freshwater Crocodile
(Crocodylus johnstoni)moving at high speed towards a Billabong.
Photo from the mid seventies.

I imported the tiff files direct from my external hard drives into Aperture 2 and converted them to B&W. So, if you have images from way back have a good look at them you never know what you might come across and if you end up using them or not makes no difference it is worth the memory from times long gone.

A few years later Dr. Graham Webb also discovered what was thought first a new species of a Freshwater Crocodile in a very remote part of Arnhem Land, an Aboriginal Reserve in the Northern Territory. Almost half the sizes of the other know Freshwater Crocs, after a long study it turned out they are exactly the same species but had adapted to this size due to the lack of food in this remote part of the Arnhem Land. Consequently they where named the Pygmy Crocodiles but it is the same species (Crocodylus johnstoni) yet another proof that these reptiles, which developed over million of years, can adapt to changes depending on their location or climate.
The Australian Freshwater Crocodile is at risk today from the increasing number of introduced Queensland Cane Toads and human interference in their habitat. The toad is lethally poisonous to Freshwater Crocodiles (although strangely harmless to Saltwater Crocodiles.
In one of my next articles I introduce you to the Australian Saltwater Crocodile, (Crocodylus porosus) experience with the same Research team…from Hatchlings to a large 22 foot Croc.
GD


See below some info and facts on the Australian Freshwater Crocodiles:

The Australian freshwater crocodile is a relatively small crocodilian. Males can grow 3 meters (9.8 ft) long, while females reach a maximum size of 2.1 meters (6.9 ft). The body color is light brown with darker bands on the body and tail - these tend to be broken up near the neck. Some individuals possess distinct bands or speckling on the snout. Body scales are relatively large, with wide, closely-knit armored plates on the back. Rounded, pebbly scales cover the flanks and outsides of the legs.

The Freshwater Crocodile is not capable of killing or even seriously harming a human. There has only been one recorded attack by a freshwater crocodile on a human; this attack took place at Barramundi Gorge (also known as Maguk) in Kakadu National Park and resulted in very minor injuries to the victim, who managed to swim and walk away from the attack. It is believed the victim swam directly over the small crocodile, in general it is still considered safe to swim with this species.
Distribution and habitat
They are found in the states of Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory. Main habitats include freshwater wetlands, billabongs, rivers, and creeks. It competes poorly with Saltwater crocodiles but is saltwater tolerant. As an adult its diet consists of birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians and fish. This species can be found in areas where Saltwater Crocodiles cannot and are known to inhabit areas above the escarpment in Kakadu National Park and in very arid & rocky conditions (such as Katherine Gorge, where they are very common and relatively safe from saltwater crocodiles during the dry season.) That being said, they are still consistently found in low-level billabongs, living alongside their larger evolutionary cousins.
This species, until recently, was common throughout much of northern Australia, especially where the much larger and far more dangerous Saltwater Crocodile is not found (such as more arid inland areas and higher elevations) but in recent years the population has dropped dramatically due to the ingestion of local populations of the invasive Cane Toad. The toad is lethally poisonous to Freshwater Crocodiles (although strangely harmless to Saltwater Crocodiles) and is rampant throughout the Australian wilderness. The crocodiles are also infected by Griphobilharzia amoena, a parasitic trematode, in regions such as Darwin, Australia and Irian Jaya.

WHY???


© Gunther Deichmann - Composite Image

As a fellow Australian I like to express my sympathy to those relatives who have lost loved ones and properties during these raging Bushfires. What amazes me, these fires have been deliberately lit…I have no words for such a crime, I am speechless…
GD

© Gunther Deichmann - Frillneck Lizard from the “Top End”
the Northern Territory of Australia. Chlamydosaurus kingii is
one of Australia's most distinctive and familiar dragon lizards.

Reptile becomes a father, at 111 a tuatara.
Tuatara are the last surviving reptiles of their kind, a rare New Zealand reptile has become a father, possibly for the first time, at the age of 111. The keepers of Henry, a tuatara, had thought he was past his prime - especially after showing no interest in females during 40 years in captivity. But he mated with 80-year-old Mildred last July and 11 of the eggs she produced have now hatched...
read the complete story and an image of Henry: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7850975.stm

“Muy Interesante Magazine” in Spain and Portugal have published in their January 2009 issues the image on the shark fins, the same Photo appeared in November 2008 as the Photo of the Week in the German Stern Magazine.
Now I like to take the opportunity and announce our support for the new released website; the Palau Shark Sanctuary and our support for the International Year of the Sharks in 2009.
Sam’s Tours in Palau Micronesia also launched today the 16 of January 2009 their NEW Sharkweeks.com website, introducing special educational shark dives every week in Palau.
Quote : “In the 21st century, shark-finning* is barbaric”
Dr. Sylvia Earle, Oceanographer
Explorer-in-Residence
National Geographic
More on Dr Sylvia Earle, Oceanographer who has just recently visited Sam’s Tours in Palau with Actress Daryl Hannah.

Photo © Dermot Keane - from left: Dr Sylvia Earle, Dermot Keane GM
of Sam’s Tours and Actress Daryl Hannah

So, if you venture to Palau for your next Dive Trip, dive with Sam’s Tours and shoot these great shark images and afterwards process them in their modern Digital Photo Center. The DPC is fully equipped with six iMac’s and has a complete back up system, software like iLife, Aperture and Photoshop Elements are installed on all machines.
If you into Videos then check with Nick who can organize all you’re video requirements, even transferring them to your iPod. Or better ask Nick to produce a video of you swimming with sharks at Blue Corner or other famous dive sites in Palau.
Swimming with Sharks is a lot more fun than slurping this tasteless soup!
Please support the International Year of the Shark 2009;
“Stop eating shark fin soup now.”

Soon to come…later this month I start to feature articles once or twice a week on;
Tips, Tricks and Techniques, watch out for these new articles called “Triple T”,
and of course you find my Aperture 2 Tutorials on my regular Blog and under GD Photo Tutorials upper left hand side with some cool screenshots.
GD

In Support of:
THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE SHARK 2009!

… was inspired by the finding that at the current rate of decline, certain shark species will be extinct in 10 to 15 years. In large regions, species that were once numerous have fallen to 1% of their original numbers. Studies of open ocean sharks estimate 80 to 90% of heavily fished
species are gone. Yet these intelligent animals, also called the “Wolves of the Sea” are still fished intensively, and finned for “shark fin soup.” The oceans have evolved over hundreds of millions of years with sharks as apex predators, so their loss will destroy oceanic health.
HELP SPREAD THE WORD:

http://www.year-of-the-shark-2009.org/

SAVE SHARKS FROM
E XTINCTION

© Gunther Deichmann - Shark from Palau Micronesia
http://www.deichmann-photo.com

“Photo of the Week” German Stern Magazine
"Bilder der Woche"  in STERN no. 46 of November 6.


© Gunther Deichmann - Double page spread in Stern
Translated Headline:“The only thing left from the Sharks”

The Photo was taken in Bali on the 8th of October in the small commercial Harbor of Denpasar Bali, Indonesia.

I just happen to come across a vessel unloading not only Fish but massive amounts of Shark fins.
Each time a pile of shark fins had been cleared of the deck and trucked away by small trucks more Shark Fins appeared from the Hull of the vessel. I left the scene after about 45 minutes but the unloading continued, thousands of Shark fins of all species. I recognized Hammerheads, White tip and Black tip sharks.
I believe the reason for the worker wearing the hood is due to the cold temperature in the hull, (or is he hiding his face)? All fins had been frozen, which indicates that the vessel came from a longer trip. I could not get into the area where the fins where transported to by the trucks, which could have revealed most likely the real scope of this “catch”.
GD

© Gunther Deichmann

The Philippine Tarsier from Bohol Island, Tarsius Syrichta (subspiecies fraberculus)
Known locally as “the smallest monkey in the world” It is actually not a monkey, nor the smallest primate in the world, but certainly is one of the smallest, growing to about 15cm in length. The male weighs an average of 134 grams, the female 117 grams.

I just call him “ET” but other local names are:
Mamag, mago, magau, maomag,

A shy, solitary, nocturnal, arboreal primate, the tarsier inhabits primary and secondary jungle forest and bamboo groves from sea level to about 700m elevation. It feeds mainly on insects and small lizards (has the largest eyes to body size of any mammal). Like the owl, the tarsier can rotate it’s head in a full 180 degrees of arch. With it’s suction cuplike fingers and toes, it is a nimble climber in trees. On the ground it hops like a kangaroo aided by it’s long tail and can leap as far as 10’ (20 times it’s body length), when escaping predators such as snakes and owls.

© Gunther Deichmann

Up until the late 1960’s the Philippine Tarsier was quite common, but due to it’s adorable and benign appearance was widely hunted to be sold as traumatized short lived pets, or even killed and stuffed to make the ideal cuddly toy for children.

In 1997, The Philippine Tarsier Foundation was established in Tagbilaran , the provincial capitol of Bohol. A 7.4 hectare sanctuary was established at Corella, where some 100 tarsiers are kept in a spacious netted natural habitat enclosure, for feeding, captive breeding and display.

© Gunther Deichmann - Turtles are also on the extinction list
Image from Palau Micronesia, without Photoshop.

The month of October/November has been very hectic, as you know we have just returned from Bali and only last weekend had to go out for another commercial shoot, which brings me to my topic of today.
I am working almost exclusive with Aperture 2 now and to be honest what else do I need, the days of Photoshop have become rare, well for me anyway.
I like to shoot the way I see it and I have written some articles on the subject, my reason for chosen the abstract Turtle is to demonstrate that Nature provides us with all the effects.
Take my recent reflection shots from Bali for example, my advise to upcoming Photographers is; Dont relay on Photoshop unless it is for some commercial work but even then try and get it right in the first place, you be amazed how rewarding nature can be. Plus the satisfaction when you see this magic shot of yours and can honestly claim...”Wow I did this without using Photoshop.”
http://www.deichmann-photo.com
GD

“Photo of the Week” German Stern Magazine
"Bilder der Woche"  in STERN no. 46 of November 6.


© Gunther Deichmann - Double page spread in Stern
Translated Headline:“The only thing left from the Sharks”

The Photo was taken in Bali on the 8th of October in the small commercial Harbor of Denpasar Bali, Indonesia.

I just happen to come across a vessel unloading not only Fish but massive amounts of Shark fins.
Each time a pile of shark fins had been cleared of the deck and trucked away by small trucks more Shark Fins appeared from the Hull of the vessel. I left the scene after about 45 minutes but the unloading continued, thousands of Shark fins of all species. I recognized Hammerheads, White tip and Black tip sharks.
I believe the reason for the worker wearing the hood is due to the cold temperature in the hull, (or is he hiding his face)? All fins had been frozen, which indicates that the vessel came from a longer trip. I could not get into the area where the fins where transported to by the trucks, which could have revealed most likely the real scope of this “catch”.
GD

© Gunther Deichmann - Rainforest, North Queensland

© Gunther Deichmann - last light on a Water Lily, a Billabong
in Kakadu National Park, N.T.

THINK!

Tags: Kakadu National Park, GLOBAL WARMING, North Queensland

Is it Dejavou? Cover of Time Magazine, March 28, 1983, Gunther Deichmann

In 1983 I experienced first hand the slaughter of thousands of cattle and sheep, destroyed due to lack of food and water.
Native animals like the Emus got killed when crossing fence lines in search for food and water. (see the image below)
“Are we now on the very brink of environmental collapse."
Excerpts from the BBC...
"You see the lack of birds and the lack of life. You smell it. You can smell the water. If you walk out into the lake bed you can burn your feet because of the acid sulphates."
"It's very real and it's happening right in front of us."
"It's been a disaster," according to the global warming activist and best-selling author, Professor Tim Flannery.

© Gunther Deichmann - Photo taken in 1983 during
“Australia’s Great Dry” near Port Augusta,in South Australia
- The remains of an Emu -

See below some excerpts from a recent story on the TIme.com website; for more and the complete article please go to:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,923411,00.html
The entire eastern half of Australia is thirsting through a wasting drought that is in many regions the worst in the history of the world's most arid continent. Already, the "Great Dry" has devastated 90% of New South Wales, which is now in its 45th month of drought, and 95% of the state of South Australia, Dubbo, a typical rural town, averages 25.5 in. of annual rainfall. Last year it had 2.3 in. In many areas seeds cannot germinate; in others the regal Murrumbidgee River is nothing but a stagnant puddle. Dust storms have enveloped Melbourne and, five weeks ago, bushfires raged over the arid ground of southeastern Australia, claiming a record 72 lives.

© Gunther Deichmann - Composite image (2 images) to demonstrate
Global Warming and the effects it is having on us and our planet.

Tags: GLOBAL WARMING, Australia, GREAT DRY, Disaster, Drought, Bush Fires, Dust Storms, Animals, Emu

© 2007 Gunther Deichmann - prestine Rainforest
in Micronesia/Pacific

I thought I share this interesting science article with you, yes a bit different from the usual Photography and Aperture stories.
But I am very fascinated by this article from the BBC. New rainforest species revealed. Parasitic vampire catfish caught on camera for the first time
An expedition to the rainforests of Guyana has discovered species new to science. A team of researchers and wildlife film-makers spent six weeks searching the pristine forest as part of a BBC documentary.
The group believes it has revealed two fish species, one frog species and a number of bat flies that have not been described previously. The finds are detailed in the BBC series Lost Land of the Jaguar.
The three-part documentary includes footage of the elusive South American cat. Dr George McGavin (BBC) was astonished at the variety of life on show. "In a short time, we caught hundreds of species, 10% of which may be new to science. It was unreal, unbelievable," exclaimed Dr George McGavin, a zoologist and one of the four presenters of the documentary.
Images/Video and a lot more about this amazing story at:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7531537.stm

Tags: RAINFOREST, Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA, Wildlife Photography

© Gunther Deichmann - taken care of our Environment in 2008 and beyond...

Hi,
Since environmental considerations are an integral part of Apple's business practices, Apple Training and Certification is pleased to introduce a new Green certificate fulfillment process. Beginning August 1, paper certificates will no longer be sent to Mac OS X and Pro Apps students who pass certification exams. Instead, students will receive an email with a link to download a PDF version of their certificate at no charge. Students will be able to print these certificates, but we hope that most will choose to simply post the PDF certificates on their websites. This new system will be available worldwide. 
Apple Training and Certification

Tags: Environment, Apple Training, Certification, Mac OS X Pro Apps

...the closing chapter? maybe...but YOU never know what is
around the next corner.


© Gunther Deichmann - “Caring Hands -Save and Protect our Environment”
...Olive ridleyTurtle hatchlings been released into the Ocean, Philippines.

The leatherback, hawksbill and Kemp's ridley turtle species are listed as endangered. The breeding populations of Olive ridley and green sea turtles are endangered along Mexico's Pacific Coast, and threatened elsewhere, the study found. Coastal development, beachfront lighting, pollution and hunting are contributing to the demise of the sea turtles, which come ashore periodically to lay their eggs in "nests" dug in the sand, according to the study. "Threatened" means a species could become "endangered," which means the species might face extinction.
GD

See below the letter from Marilyn Terrell; thanks Marilyn for your kind words, lets do this again one of these days with topics concerning our Environment or related issues.

Fascinating discussion, and I'm impressed that marine biologist Lee Goldman took the time to write such an informed and thought-provoking response. Thank you Gunther for hosting this worthwhile conversation. I like it that people with differing points of view are given a chance to express their concerns and opinions on your blog in a civilized way.
All best,
Marilyn Terrell
National Geographic Traveler
Intelligent Travel blog:
http://intelligenttravel.typepad.com

Marilys letter came in response of our last discussion and the letter written by Lee Goldman, if you have missed it just click on the link below.
Underwater Photography…are you a responsible Photographer? A letter from a Marine Biologist…Education, awareness, an article in the recent Fins Magazine fits in nicely with the Nudibranch images in National Geographic Magazine…
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/blog.html
GD

Tags: Turtles, Olive ridley

© Gunther Deichmann - “Our Environment” the image was
created in Photoshop to ilustrate our fragile environment.

Thanks again to all who have responded to this discussion…if nothing else comes out of it at least we have tried to guide new and not so experience Underwater Photographers in the right direction explaining about our precious Marine Life and to follow the rules of engagement, Don’t Touch.
The mention article in Fins Magazine is not only a guide but it is extremely educational for new and Pro Underwater Photographers.
Maybe National Geographic Magazine should publish an article, but this time not with pretty images but explaining the Do and Don’t which could be very educational to the million of readers they have.

Last but not least…let me quote one example from the recent article in Fins Magazine; did you know? Don’t take to many shots of each Animal. You know how a Camera Flash from a few meters away can blind you? The same flash can kill Pigmy Seahorses.
Not only that… I have seen large Fan corals completely destroyed by irresponsible “Underwater Photographers” to get this shot of the Pigmy Seahorse.
Now everything is gone.
GD

See below a letter from Lee Goldman a Marine Biologist…

I was hesitant to write a reply to the blog about the nudibranchs, mostly because, as you know, I agree with your points.
Recently, however, a response was written about your blog from SM Jayabalan, a response that I don’t necessarily agree with. First off, would people’s lives be less enriched or ‘disadvantaged’if they don’t ever see a nudibranch? Well, it depends, right? Perhaps they won’t make more money at work or solve the reasons for why the kids get tattoos early in life, but to see the nudibranch may provoke a direction in their lives that lead towards responsibility to the environment even if on a personal level. How many times before have we heard that a photograph inspires? What if the particular person who appreciates the nudibranch is 18 years old and has an epiphany that leads towards a career in marine biology; where he studies nudibranchs and does work to protect them (and their environment)? It is slightly irresponsible for the author of the response to say that the photo of a nudibranch won’t do anything for anybody. Could a photo of the nudibranch in its natural environment do the same thing? Perhaps, but I know of thousands of photos of Ayer’s Rock and for each one, five-thousand people prefer it over all the others. Is that justification for moving marine organisms around? I don’t know, but then again, if none of them were harmed, nor their lives dramatically changed (or changed at all for that matter) then it boils down to other areas of concern…not at all whether it had an affect (or not) on the viewer of the photograph.
The statement about a percentage of millions of people whose new perspective of nudibranchs is that they live in white walled sections of the reef…with piped music? When you go to an aquarium how many people above the age of seven do you think believe all of the fish live in glassed tanks in the ocean? This is a huge stretch that not even a good lawyer could sell a jury. What percentage? As a marine biologist, professional aquarist, and professional dive guide I have had my share of folks who needed a lesson in the most basics of the ocean and marine-life, but never have I encountered someone who would believe such a thing as this author is suggesting. I believe NG explained this particular shoot so the audience would understand the concept as well as the natural history and habitat of the nudibranch.
You had it right from the start about the ‘message’ it sends. In the current world of marine photography, to me, the greatest area of stagnation is creativity, mostly due to everyone striving for the same picture/subject as everyone else. Don’t believe me, check out just about everyone’s portfolio; pygmy seahorse, a shark of some sort, wide angle reef scene, manta ray, turtle, nudibranch…oh, nowadays the over/under shot. David Doubilet approached a ‘worn’ subject and added a bit of creativity (and I believe entire WHY NG DID go this route). The dangerous area that this photo shoot leads to is the hundreds of less than respectful photographers with less than proper equipment, knowledge, and support doing the same thing.
We talked before about this and I told you that I felt that with the right equipment, attitude, and knowledge it can be pulled off so that nothing is harmed. I believe David Doubilet is probably one of the few photographers capable of doing this…mostly due to his inexhaustible resource for the right equipment and support. I believe the approach NG and Mr. Doubilet took was that of no disrespect to the organism. As you also know, my fear is that other folks may try and copy his work.
Lee Goldman, Marine Biologist

Tags: Fins Magazine

Christmas is over, the New Year is approaching, as photographers we can help to get the message out there, the survival of our Planet is important for our younger generations. I have seen with my own eyes so many changes over the past 30 years, hence the images below. We have to do something and think about it now, before it is too late.

Mother planet is showing us the red warning light. Be careful, she is saying.
To take care of the planet is to take care of our own house.
Dalai Lama

Happy Holidays and thanks for all your support,
from Gunther, family and team.

A very happy New Year - prost Neujahr - bonne année - onnellista uutta vuotta - gelukkig Nieuwjaar - ath bhliain faoi mhaise - selamat tahun baru - godt nytt år - szczliwego nowego roku - feliz ano novo - gott nytt år manigong bagong taon - sawatdii pimaï - kung hé fat tsoi - xin nian kuai le / xin nian hao - godt nytår - eutichismenos o kainourgios chronos - felice anno nuovo, buon anno - S novim godom - sreno novo leto - Cung Chúc Tân Xuân- yeni yiliniz kutlu olsun

Before...


After...


Too late!

The species extinction rate has increased to one species a day.
Lets make the coming years more greener and protect our environment.
©Gunther Deichmann - more environmental images at: www.deichmann-photo.com

Think...!

____________________

From 30,000 feet above (my last Blog)to 100 feet below or more...
the ugly things I have to shoot sometimes.

We are again at the end of the year, wow how fast this one past... but then not as fast then the disappearance of our animal species.

The species extinction rate has increased to one species a day.
Lets make the coming years more greener and protect our environment.
Think!
Mother planet is showing us the red warning light. Be careful, she is saying.
To take care of the planet is to take care of our own house.
Dalai Lama

Confiscated shark fins... eating the soup...yuk...
when the slurping stops... the killing will too.


Embryo shark... mother and child got killed... for?
Nothing!

An endangered animal or plant is a species that is considered in immediate danger of becoming extinct. Its population is very small and it needs active protection to survive. In many countries, hunting of endangered animals is not allowed. Neither is importation of their meat, fur, tusks, blubber, or other products.

Extinction has happened throughout history, but in modern times the rate has increased dramatically. There is a link between the increase in the extinction rate and the growth in human population. The worldwide human population was 1 billion in 1600, 1.5 billion 100 years ago, and is over 6 billion today. At the same time, the species extinction rate has increased to one species a day. If this continues, it will cause a dramatic drop in the diversity of life on our planet, which will most certainly have serious effects.
If you have any interesting images related to the environment or stories to tell, please let me know and I try to incorporate these in my Blogs, thank you.

For other recent related environmental issues, please click these links below:

http://marinebio.org/Oceans/History/

http://www.samstours.com/blog/

______________________________________

Global warming, Photo © Gunther Deichmann

Unborn Shark, it's Mother and Baby got
Murdered!

Stop the killing and say no to Shark fin soup, it is Disgusting.
Sharks are NOT man-eaters, it is us who eat and destroy them,
and why do we kill Turtles and burn our forests?
Why???????
Gunther Deichmann and his friends are fully in agreement with this letter!

Photos © Gunther Deichmann, www.deichmann-photo.com

Please take a good look at the images above, there is a community in Bataan, who used to collect turtle eggs and sell them.
No more, they now take care of these precious creatures, collect the eggs and once they have hatched release them back into our Ocean, I wish we had more communities like this, and who thought this is happen in the Philippines, but this is the fact, including road signs in this area have been put up for our oil guzzling cars.
More in details about this amazing Turtle loving community in one of my future blogs, but please read on regarding the letter which I have received from my friend and supporter Jason Heller at DivePhotoGuide and get all the info @

http://www.divephotoguide.com/discovery_shark_week.php

For those of you have not seen this yet, please feel free to post it. It is a formal response from the world’s foremost shark scientists, researchers and conservationists regarding this year’s Shark Week content. If you support shark conservation, please consider posting or publishing it.

http://www.divephotoguide.com/discovery_shark_week.php
 

Interesting note from David Callard in Australia, his comments on the Environment issue and images, please read below, some of us do care.
Thanks David for your views and nice words.
G.D.
From: dcallard@bigpond.net.au
Subject: The planet in the oven.
Date: June 9, 2007 10:19:28 AM GMT+08:00
To: gdeichmann@mac.com

Hello Gunther,

Love the new environment images. I think my favorite is the plain water drop on the leaf; that really says it for me. Addressing climate change has to be the biggest challenge mankind has faced, yet I am not totally pessimistic about our ability to solve it. Unlike the Mesopotamians or the Aztecs modern man has the scientific knowledge to identify the problem and propose solutions. Yes, we will have to accept some major changes to our lifestyles and means of production but capitalism has clearly won the ideological wars and of course its greatest strength is its capacity to rapidly adapt to change. So, I put my faith in science to find alternative energy sources. I am in favor of nuclear power as a stopgap solution until we can get solar and other sources fully developed. More later - have to do some more study.
Cheers, David.


To view my new collection on Environment images, please go to my Aperture Gallery:
http://homepage.mac.com/gdeichmann/ENVIRONMENT%20PART%202/

or go to my PhotoShelter archive for high res. images:
http://www.photoshelter.com/c/gdeichmann 

Just received this nice note from Mark Cox, please read below:

Hi Gunther,

You are so right mate! all we humans ever do is take take & more take, then we start crying when its too late, we will definitely destroy our selves its just human instinct I think. If all the tree's & rain-forest disappear human life will cease to exist. I'm the same as you Gunther the world has to come together before its too late really.

Great Work Gunther.

Mark Cox
mark@tech-dive-academy.com
Photographer & Adventurer

I have created some images trying to portrait the on going world water crisis and Global warming issue.
enjoy these images and...
THINK!
It is indeed a serious problem world wide, lets do something about it.
THANKS!
You can help.
Too!

Click this link to view more images on my Aperture web Gallery