This short-finned pilot whale was left unable to swim after its tail was severed by a boat propeller and its body attacked by sharks. In the water, Francis could hear the injured whale’s cries, as well as those of its family group, which circled protectively. ‘It was the saddest day of my career,’ says Francis, who has photographed marine life for 20 years.
These deep waters host more than 20 whale and dolphin species. With increasing boat tourism and no speeding regulations, propeller strikes are a constant threat, especially to pilot whales, which recover from long, tiring dives at the water’s surface. Speed restrictions can reduce collisions.
Spain
Francis is an underwater photographer and economist, specialising in environmental economics. In recent years his photography has focused on cetaceans and marine mammals. He is a regular collaborator to National Geographic Spain and a SeaLegacy Collective member. He won first prize in the nature singles category at World Press Photo 2017.
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