Habitat:
Freshwater marshes, lakes, rivers, and floodplains

Description:
The yacare caiman is a medium-sized semi-aquatic reptile (up to 2 m long), recognizable by the bony ridge between its eyes that resembles eyeglasses. Found in South America (northern Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay), it inhabits freshwater marshes, lakes, rivers, and floodplains. An opportunistic omnivore, it feeds on fish, crustaceans, birds, and small mammals. During the breeding season, males produce deep grunts and aggressively defend aquatic territories, while females build vegetation nests and lay 20–40 eggs.

Recommended lens:
>=200 mm

Photography tips:
Photograph the yacare caiman from a distance using at least a 200 mm telephoto lens at the water’s edge at sunrise or sunset to take advantage of soft light. Remain inconspicuous, position yourself under riparian vegetation, and maintain a safe distance of at least 15 m to avoid disturbing the animal. Use a tripod and a fast shutter speed to freeze its movements.