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
Just in Time
Colin Chan, New South Wales
It’s a race against time for this Whimbrel, which I watched expertly pluck this crab from the rocks. Not just to escape from the onrushing waves with its prized catch but also to ‘fill up’ with enough food along Australia’s coast for its long migration north towards the Arctic.
Judges' Comments
A complex scene that effortlessly communicates what is happening. The multiple layers of imagery leave no empty spaces, and the excellent use of depth of field draws us straight to the subjects. We can immediately understand the drama without the caption.
Runner-Up
Hunting in the Glow
Nathan Watson, Western Australia
On this cool autumn morning, a bank of sea cloud blanketed the rising Sun, casting a warm golden glow across the harbour. It was a breathtaking scene and a dreamlike canvas against which to capture the elegant silhouette of a Great Egret as it hunted in the stillness.
Judges’ Comments
This photograph epitomises the category of Animals in Nature. The sharpness of the bird and softness of the environment give a cinematic feel. It sparks a strong desire to go birdwatching at dawn.