This year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice award features a stunning array of images showcasing the beauty and diversity of the natural world. From acrobatic birds to elusive mammals, these photographs offer a unique glimpse into the wonders of wildlife.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year contest, hosted by the Natural History Museum in London, is renowned for celebrating the art of wildlife photography. With a jury of experts selecting the winners each year, the competition has earned the nickname “Oscars of wildlife photography.” However, for the People’s Choice award, the judging is left to the public, allowing everyone to engage with and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
This year’s contest received an impressive 59,228 entries from 117 countries and territories. While the overall winners and highly commended images have already been announced, the People’s Choice award finalists offer a fresh selection of captivating moments captured in nature. From peaceful animal interactions to urgent conservation themes, these images highlight the diversity and wonder of the natural world.
Among the finalists is “Annoying Neighbour” by Bence Máté, featuring a European roller performing acrobatics to drive away a little owl from its breeding territory. In “Curious Connection” by Nora Milligan, a chimpanzee in Gabon makes eye contact with the photographer, showcasing a moment of connection between human and animal.
Other striking images include “Edge of Night” by Jess Findlay, capturing a barn owl flying out of a hayloft window at night, and “Icy Repose” by Sue Flood, showcasing a tired Weddell seal resting on an ice floe in Antarctica. Piotr Naskrecki’s “Snuffling Sengi” offers a glimpse of the rarely seen four-toed sengi foraging in Mozambique.
The images range from dramatic wildlife encounters, such as “Wolf Pack” by Arvind Ramamurthy, depicting a pack of wolves near farms in India, to serene moments in nature, like Michel d’Oultremont’s “Whiteout,” showing a stoat blending into a snowy landscape in Belgium. Each photograph tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of wildlife.
Voting for the People’s Choice award is open until January 29, with the winner and runners-up set to be announced on February 5. As we await the results, these breathtaking images serve as a reminder of the beauty and importance of wildlife conservation. Each photograph captures a moment in time, showcasing the wonders of the natural world and inspiring us to connect with and protect the environment around us.
