News-Press photographer Andrew West is known for his stunning wildlife photography, capturing images of some of Southwest Florida’s most elusive creatures. From panthers to bears, turkeys to racoons, and bobcats to wild hogs, West uses his remote sensor camera trap to get up close and personal with the region’s diverse wildlife.
Recently, West set up his camera trap in the Southwest Florida woods and captured a striking image of a wild hog. The photo, taken on Sunday, July 14, 2024, in the late afternoon at 5:29 pm, showcases the wild hog in all its glory. The light falling on the hog highlights its features, making it look as if it had just been swimming or caught in a rain shower. The water glistening off its back adds a touch of magic to the image, showcasing the beauty of these creatures in their natural habitat.
One of the advantages of using a remote camera trap, as West explains, is the ability to capture close-up views of wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior. The camera trap he uses is a Canon 5d in a waterproof housing with external flashes triggered remotely and an external motion sensor. This setup allows him to capture stunning images like the one of the wild hog, providing a unique perspective on the natural world and the animals that inhabit it.
When asked about the size and weight of the wild hog in the photo, West describes it as „huge“ and one of the larger wild pigs he has captured on camera. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, wild hogs can reach weights of more than 150 pounds and be 5-6 feet long. They typically travel in small family groups or alone and feed on a variety of plants and animals by rooting with their broad snouts, which can disturb the soil and ground cover vegetation.
Wild hogs, while fascinating to observe, are considered non-native and invasive species in Florida. They have been in the region for hundreds of years and can be destructive to the environment due to their foraging habits. Despite this, they are an integral part of the ecosystem and play a role in the natural balance of the area.
In conclusion, Andrew West’s behind-the-scenes glimpse of setting up his camera trap and capturing images of Southwest Florida’s wildlife offers a unique perspective on the region’s diverse ecosystem. Through his lens, viewers can appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world and gain a deeper understanding of the wildlife that calls Southwest Florida home.
