Muscovy ducklings swim in a pond at Lake Eola Park in Orlando, Florida. Photo: Ronen Tivony
My image of Muscovy ducklings swimming in a pond at Lake Eola Park was published in The Guardian on October 2, 2025.
Lake Eola – a small wildlife oasis in downtown Orlando
Lake Eola is a real urban oasis: a sinkhole-turned-park in the middle of the city where swans, waterbirds, and pond turtles find food, shelter and a place to bask — right next to the skyline and the walking path.
Who you’ll see:
Swans — iconic and cared for as part of the lake.
Feral/ornamental ducks — including Muscovy ducks and ducklings around the shoreline.
Wading birds — ibis, herons and egrets feeding in the shallows.
Pond turtles — softshells and slider-type turtles often sunning on logs or the bank.
For a tiny downtown lake, Lake Eola packs real biodiversity, a place where city life and wildlife coexist, perfect for quick wildlife photos and casual nature watching.
About Ronen Tivony
Ronen Tivony is an award-winning wildlife photojournalist based in Florida. His work has been featured in esteemed publications such as The Guardian, The Times, National Geographic, and The New York Times. Ronen’s commitment to capturing the essence of wildlife through his lens has earned him recognition and accolades in the field of photojournalism. Through his workshops and tours, Ronen shares his expertise and passion for wildlife photography with others, guiding participants to enhance their skills and connect with nature in meaningful ways.