So here's something I didn't actually know about myself until today: I really, really love terrible photos of wildlife. And thanks to one Facebook group, I can enjoy all of the best-worst animal pics that photographers have to offer.
Crappy Wildlife Photography is dedicated to proving that not every nature picture ends up on the cover National Geographic, and sometimes things don't really workout the way photographers thought they would.
After all, animals can be pretty unpredictable models.
In an interview with Bored Panda, page creator Tristan Kennedy explained why he decided to start the hilarious community back in 2015:
"Someone asked on another group called 'Crap Bird Photography' if there was a page for all wildlife —there wasn't one that I could find so I created it."
As Tristan explained, part of the group's appeal is that most photographers have taken "crappy wildlife" photos at one point or another. Now they finally have a place where they can share them, and have them be appreciated.
"The 'good' photo groups aren't interested in bad photography, of course, so it gives people somewhere to share their lesser quality photos and have a laugh at themselves," he said.
These rules include sharing "poorly executed, poor quality or otherwise photography faux pas" because "'Too Good' photos will be gently mocked or given bad photography advice." Also, the animals must be wild. No captive or domesticated creatures allowed.
On a more serious note, members are strictly forbidden from sharing disturbing or harmful photos, animal or otherwise, and can only share pictures that they themselves have taken.
Everyone stand back because I think this Costa Rica anteater is about to do something very big.
My guess is he's either going to break dance, not unlike performers you'd see on the subway, or he's just going to eat some ants. Either way, I'm very excited for the show.
This poster explained they had been attempting to snap a photo of a blue jay, although I must say that in all my years, is definitely the most unusual blue jay I have ever seen.
And frankly, I don't like the way he's looking at me.
Well, actually this was just a poorly-timed photo taken of a praying mantis on someone's windshield.
But for a second there I really thought I was looking at some Godzilla-sized bug and I did not like it one bit.
This caribou was clearly caught off guard when it found itself suddenly part of what seems to have been a candid photo shoot.
But can we all just take a moment to appreciate its little pink tongue??
As it turns out, this pelican (who has lovingly been named Percy) happened to slip and face-plant on the rock at the very moment his admirer was attempting to take a photo.
At first, this photographer was stumped trying to figure out what that big black splotch on the side of the car was.
Of course, then she zoomed in a little and probably passed out from all the gosh-darn cuteness she'd managed to capture in just one photo.
Perhaps if you're going to snap some pictures of a bear, you might want to make sure there's enough distance between you both so that if he decides he doesn't really feel up for having his photo taken today, you won't have to worry about him mauling you over it.
Look, if you're flying South for the winter and you were supposed to be at your wife's sister's place hours ago, you'd also forgo taking pit-stops to try and make up for lost time.
I just really, really hope this person had their window rolled up because that's one insect you most certainly do not want to tango with.
Clearly this little squirrel wasn't really in the mood for pictures. How else can you explain that itty-bitty middle finger he's throwing up?
Okay, we've already seen a bumblebee bum, and that was pretty darn cute. But how about a duck bum??
Honestly, I knew I was going to laugh at most of these pictures, but I really didn't expect to audibly "aww" at some, too.
If you want more "crappy wildlife photography," check out their Facebook group, their Facebook page, or follow them on Instagram.
