May 21, 2021 is Endangered Species Day, and with one-third of freshwater fishes facing extinction, the purpose of the Bichir Drawing Contest is to spotlight vulnerable taxa. With growing desertification and human-induced pressures, some polypterid populations face an uncertain future. Recognition of this prehistoric fish family is critical for people to be able understand and conserve them, and wow have you all made a massive contribution to that effort!
Congratulations to the winners of the Bichir Drawing Contest! The reason these pieces won was not only down to their talent, but that they embodied the goal of bringing these fishes into sight and into mind—an important stepping stone in conservation. Abe's drawing showed us that bichirs are not the ugly monster fishes which some people portray them to be, and I found Shannon's to be symbolic of hope, extinction and a species' persistence through the unforgiving passage of time.
Winners will receive a first edition, first printing, signed copy of The Bichir Handbook (no longer in circulation) to the address provided in their submission form, along with a printable Certificate of Achievement sent via email.
I'll also be sending all entrants a printable Certificate of Recognition over the emails provided in their entry form.
