fp Turks and Caicos

The photos have been submitted, and the votes are in for the first place winner of the 2012 “loss of bio-diversity means loss of identity” photo competition by the Turks and Caicos National Trust.

The winning entry, which shows a rare close up shot of a baby hummingbird in its nest, was submitted by Melanie Visaya.

A total of 10 photos were submitted to the contest, which was open to everyone. In addition to choosing a clear winner, the judges chose to recognize two runners up.

“There were lots of great photos reflecting the theme ‘loss of bio-diversity means loss of identity’ in an imaginative and engaging manner,” said Justin Missick, trust project manager. “But the winning photo’s rare shot stood out. We hope the next one we will have even more great entries to make it tougher on the judges.”

The competition was meant to spark more interest, awareness and appreciation in Turks and Caicos Islanders for the uniqueness and natural elements of their country.

The winning photo will be used on various National Trust advertisements and paraphernalia. The winner will receive a first place prize of $250 cash.

Christopher Ricketts, a freelance photographer, was first runner up with a photo of JoJo the dolphin leaping from the water. He gets a boat trip for two sponsored by Sail Provo on any one of their day tours.

Second runners up were Delano and Devante Gardiner, 16 and 14 respectively, for their picture of the beach at Half Moon Bay. They will receive a $150 cash prize.

There will be an exhibition 4 p.m. March 3 at Town Centre Mall, where all the entries will be displayed. Come out and support the work of these photographers and the National Trust.