Ian Haggerty RSA

26/07/2026

Some fish always seem to know where the camera is... and this happy little pufferfish was definitely ready for its close-up.

With its curious expression and seemingly permanent smile, it swam right up to the lens as if it wanted to say hello. Moments like these are a reminder of just how full of personality the underwater world can be.

What's the first word that comes to mind when you see that face?

26/07/2026

Launching my SMB ☺️☺️☺️

26/07/2026

Shhhh it's sleeping 😴 💤 Sea anemone fast asleep.

26/07/2026

Dogs of Pereybere Beach, Mauritius 🐕🏝️
Every beach has its regulars, and Pereybere is no exception. During my morning walks and dives, I've come to recognise many of the local dogs. Some are incredibly friendly and love a gentle pat, while others prefer to keep their distance—and that's perfectly okay. Like people, every dog has its own personality. Always approach unfamiliar dogs calmly and respectfully, and let them decide if they want to interact.
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Keywords: Pereybere Beach, Mauritius, beach dogs, stray dogs, island dogs, friendly dogs, cautious dogs, animal behaviour, responsible tourism, dog lovers, beach life, tropical island, travel Mauritius, wildlife, local life, morning walks, ocean, Indian Ocean, respect animals,

25/07/2026

A school of venomous catfish moving gracefully across the reef is a sight you don't often get to witness. Although they may not be the most colourful fish on the reef, there's something fascinating about the way they move together in perfect formation.

These catfish have venomous spines on their dorsal and pectoral fins, which they use for defence against predators. They're generally peaceful and far more interested in searching the reef for small invertebrates and organic matter than bothering divers.

Sometimes it's the less celebrated reef residents that make for the most memorable encounters.

25/07/2026

25/07/2026

Some dives stay with you forever, and this was one of them.

The visibility was absolutely incredible, making it feel as though I was floating in mid-water. A curious school of bannerfish slowly approached, circled back, then swam towards me again as if they were just as interested in me as I was in them. Moments like this can't be planned—they simply happen, and that's what makes the ocean so special.

Filmed on the Insta360 Ace Pro 2, but no camera can truly capture what it feels like to be surrounded by crystal-clear water and curious marine life.

25/07/2026

Not every selfie has to be with another person... sometimes it's with one of the ocean's most striking fish.
This lionfish seemed perfectly happy to pose while I carefully kept a respectful distance. With its beautiful striped pattern and dramatic venomous spines, the lionfish is one of the reef's most recognisable species. Despite their beauty, they're skilled ambush predators that use their large fins to corner small fish before striking.
A memorable underwater selfie with one of the reef's true icons.

25/07/2026

The peacock flounder is a true master of camouflage. Resting on the sandy seabed, it can rapidly change its colours and patterns to blend almost perfectly into its surroundings, making it incredibly difficult for both predators and prey to spot. Despite its flat appearance, it's an active ambush hunter, waiting patiently before striking with surprising speed.

A reminder that some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures aren't the brightest or biggest—they're simply the hardest to see.