See 16 Stunning Animal Images From the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards
Now in its 62nd year, the famed competition has released a sneak peek of the entries from this contest ahead of announcing the winners in October
The 62nd Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, organized by the Natural History Museum in London, has unveiled a selection of 16 stunning images that showcase the beauty and struggle of the natural world. The full set of 100 winning images will be announced in October, but these selected photos offer a glimpse into the diverse subjects and themes captured by photographers from around the globe.
The competition received a record-breaking 65,403 entries from photographers in 121 countries and territories. The Natural History Museum’s mission, as stated by Kathy Moran, chair of the contest's jury, is to inspire a love of the natural world and create advocates for the planet.
Many of the winning photographs highlight the darker aspects of animal life, such as habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade. However, the contest also celebrates the everyday moments in nature that often go unnoticed, showcasing the intricate connections between various species.
One photograph, a young bullfrog's failed attempt to catch a butterfly, highlights the challenges faced by these creatures in their natural habitats. Another image, featuring a bear trained for a circus performance in Qatar, underscores the impact of human activities on wildlife.
Despite the challenges, the competition also celebrates the beauty and complexity of nature, as seen in images of a school of bigeye trevally swimming near the coast of Seychelles, protected under a Marine Protected Area. This safe haven allows the vibrant fish population to thrive, benefiting both the ecosystem and local fishers.
The photographs also capture the resilience of animals in harsh environments, such as the Namib Desert chameleon, which has adapted to survive sandstorms through its ability to collect water droplets from the air. The image of a polar bear peeking through a hole in sea ice highlights the precarious balance between predators and prey, while also emphasizing the urgency of conservation efforts.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year contest serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our natural world, urging viewers to appreciate and protect it for future generations.
Written by urgent.news from Smithsonian's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
