Would you climb into the water to swim with a crocodile? Most crocodiles go out of their way to avoid people and prefer to hide in the sanctuary of their fresh to saltwater habitats. I met this American crocodile in the sunny shallows of Cuba where we spent a dreamy afternoon exploring seagrass beds and mangroves together. Even as he drew close to my lens, giving in to his own curiosity, I never felt any fear– only respect and fascination. Much like sharks, crocodiles are often hunted down and killed out of fear. Many people don’t realize that their presence is actually a healthy sign that the local ecosystems are finding balance. My hope is that in sharing my experiences and the images I have taken of these beautiful animals, I can reveal the true story of crocodiles as a vital component of our plant’s vanishing water systems. This year I am honored to be a judge for @AustraliaZoo’s annual Crikey! magazine photography competition. The contest invites artists from around the world to showcase the beauty of wildlife like crocodiles and inspire others to protect it. Click the link in my bio to learn more. @RobertIrwinPhotography