SNOW MONKEYS RELAX IN HOT SPRING<br />WITH PIX AND VID<br />By Shuk Yee Tsang<br />A group of Japanese macaque families were captured soaking in a steaming hot spring, surrounded by falling snow.<br />Tapan Sheth, a 45-year-old software engineer from Rajkot, Gujarat, India, and a passionate wildlife photographer, braved freezing temperatures to document this serene moment in Jigokudani, Japan.<br />The macaques huddled together for warmth, their fur dusted with frost, before sinking into the water with eyes half-closed in complete relaxation.<br />Tapan, who has been photographing wildlife for over 12 years, specifically planned this trip to capture the rare and intimate moments of snow monkeys adapting to the harsh winter environment.<br />To prepare for the extreme cold, he used layered winter gear, waterproof gloves, and insulated boots. His camera setup included a weather-sealed body, a telephoto zoom lens for close-up shots, and extra batteries kept warm in his pockets to prevent power loss in freezing conditions.<br />Tapan said: "Photographing snow monkeys in Jigokudani is an experience like no other.<br />"Standing in the freezing cold, surrounded by falling snow, you watch these incredible creatures embrace the warmth of the hot springs.<br />"The contrast between the icy landscape and the steaming water mirrors the delicate balance of survival in nature.<br />"In those fleeting seconds, you’re not just an observer; you’re connected to the wild in its most raw and beautiful form.<br />"Spending time in the wild, observing animal behaviour, and capturing those rare, untamed moments became a passion that turned into a lifelong pursuit.<br />"Over the years, this journey has not only honed my skills but also deepened my connection with the natural world, driving me to share its beauty through my lens."<br />END
