Branching out.

The article focuses on a photograph of an Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) taken in Colombia's Chingaza Ecopalacio Reserve, which was shortlisted in the Sony World Photography Awards. The bear, a roughly 5-year-old male, was newly observed in the area, possibly attracted by a mate, highlighting rare sightings of this species. The Andean bear is classified as "vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to habitat loss from agriculture, roads, and mining, leading to conflicts with humans and illegal hunting. The photograph underscores the importance of conserving this emblematic South American bear and its unique tropical Andean habitat. The Sony World Photography Awards 2026 exhibition is held at Somerset House, London, from April 17 to May 4. [Extracted from the article]