Tampa Aquarium’s Emerald Tree Boa Graces December Magazine Cover
TAMPA, Fla. — An emerald tree boa from the Florida Aquarium has secured the coveted cover of the 2024 edition of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Connect Magazine. This recognition comes after a staff member, Charlotte “Charly” Quiñones, captured a stunning photograph of the snake during her routine visits to the aquarium.
Who Captured the Winning Shot?
Charly Quiñones, who serves as the aquarium’s people operations manager in human resources, took the compelling close-up image of the tree boa as it coiled and rested. Her passion for photography played a significant role in this achievement, as she expressed, “Photography has always been a deep passion of mine. Working at the Florida Aquarium has provided me with an incredible opportunity to be surrounded by fascinating animals, allowing me to integrate my love for photography into my daily work.”
Where and When Was the Photo Taken?
The photograph was captured during one of Quiñones’ leisurely strolls through the aquarium. The emerald tree boa, known for its striking green coloration, resides in the aquarium’s wetlands of Florida habitat. This encounter inspired Quiñones to snap the image that would later be selected for the magazine cover.
Why is This Recognition Important?
This prestigious honor highlights the vital connection between art and conservation. Dan Ashe, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, commented, “Through the lens of a camera, we can bring people closer to animals, their habitats, and their conservation stories. Each photo is a call to action, and we could not have been more inspired by this year’s contestants.”
A Competitive Showcase
The competition was fierce, with over 260 photographs submitted from talented photographers across North America and Canada. In addition to Quiñones’ award-winning photograph, the magazine also highlighted 10 honorable mentions and 27 additional highlights, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication of those committed to animal photography and conservation.
The Role of Aquariums in Conservation
Institutions like the Florida Aquarium play a significant role in education and conservation. They foster a greater understanding of wildlife and the challenges many species face. Events like photography contests not only provide an engaging outlet for employees but also promote awareness and support for conservation efforts.
Final Thoughts
The selection of Quiñones’ photograph as the cover of Connect Magazine serves as a reminder of the beauty found within nature and the importance of preserving it. The Florida Aquarium continues to inspire both its staff and the public, encouraging all to take a closer look at the environment and the animals that inhabit it.
This achievement offers a moment of pride for Quiñones and the Florida Aquarium, and it serves as a testament to the impact that one person’s passion can have on a larger community dedicated to wildlife preservation.
