The Waitomo area is famous for its limestone caves. Disappearing deep under the earth, they form a labyrinth of dark tunnels and inky black water. And within these tunnels live the glowworms.
Glowworms are a species of fungus gnat endemic to New Zealand. They hang down up to 70 threads of silk, and then they produce a luminescent glow to attract prey into their threads. When enough glowworms cover the roof of a cave, they look like the stars on a cold clear night.
Photographer Shaun Jeffers has spent the past year photographing these tiny amazing animals. To achieve the shots, he would spend six to eight hours a day submerged in freezing cold water -- but the results were worth it!
To see more, check out the Waitomo website
Shaun Jeffers' Website
Shaun Jeffers' Instagram: Instagram
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