A common gallinule runs across water to escape from an alligator at the Green Cay Nature Center in Boynton Beach, Florida. Photo: Ronen Tivony
Recent Publication The Times
On September 6, 2025, one of my photographs was published in The Times (UK) in their “News in Pictures” section.
The image, captured at Green Cay Nature Center in Boynton Beach, Florida, shows a common gallinule running across the water to escape an approaching alligator.
The common gallinule (Gallinula galeata) is a widespread waterbird found throughout the Americas. Known for its distinctive red frontal shield and yellow-tipped red bill. Despite being a strong swimmer, the gallinule can move surprisingly fast on foot, often using a rapid run across floating vegetation or even open water, as captured in this photo. These birds are omnivorous and feed on a variety of aquatic plants, insects, and small fish, playing an important role in wetland food webs.
Green Cay Nature Center is a renowned South Florida wetland preserve located in Boynton Beach. Its well-maintained boardwalks allow visitors to observe native wildlife like herons, egrets, ibis, and alligators in a natural setting. The center plays a vital role in conservation education and habitat protection in Palm Beach County.
Being featured in The Times is an acknowledgment of the ecological stories and photographic opportunities Florida’s wetlands provide.