Spring Fed

Photograph by Ryan Nelson , National Geographic Your Shot

The winter season is when some manatees find sanctuary from the chilly Gulf of Mexico by migrating to the freshwater springs of Kings Bay in Crystal River, Florida, writes Ryan Nelson , a member of our Your Shot community. [A] colder than normal morning created a good opportunity to observe these peaceful giants seeking refuge. The ambient light was perfect for catching the rays of sunlight ... [and] the fallen palm stump, natural lighting, and two animals feeding set the perfect stage.

Nelson s picture recently appeared in the Your Shot assignment First Light .

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