The animal(s) must be photographed in a natural environment. They may be either native or feral but must be depicted in nature with minimal evidence of human activity. Captive species are not allowed.
Winner
PJ & Crabs
Charles Davis, New South Wales
Each year, on the full moon, tens of thousands of spider crabs gather to shed their shells. At this time, they become soft and vulnerable to predation from sharks and large rays so they bunch up in epic numbers to protect themselves. This Port Jackson shark was cruising over the hoard.
Judges' Comments
A galaxy of ink is the key to this ethereal underwater capture; the fantastic result of time, place and circumstance. The photographer has shown great technical and emotional control to capture this unrepeatable moment. A beautiful piece of storytelling.
Runner-Up
The Leap
Charles Davis, New South Wales
This photo took 27 nights straight to get. Every night, I could see this quoll taking the same trail on the trail cams; I knew there was a chance to catch it jumping. But something went wrong almost every night. On night 27 everything came together with luck and persistence.
Judges’ Comments
Significant technical expertise is required to capture such a cryptic species in a unique moment. Location, timing, lighting, and behaviour are spot-on. This is camera trap photography done expertly.