After a year-long competition with more than 24,000 entries, the Bird Photographer of the Year awards have revealed their standout winners. Among the captivating images, a striking northern gannet photo took the top prize, spotlighting both the beauty and resilience of birdlife in challenging times.
- Grand prize awarded for northern gannet image in Scottish waters
- Owls in flight and other species captured in stunning natural settings
- Gallery showcases winners across diverse bird habitats worldwide
What happened
The 2026 Bird Photographer of the Year competition concluded with a selection of extraordinary photographs chosen from over 24,000 submissions worldwide. The grand prize was awarded to Henley Spiers from the UK for his captivating image of a northern gannet captured in Scottish waters, a species recently affected by avian influenza in North America.
Other notable winners included Swedish photographer Ivan Sjögren, who received the Gold Award in the Birds in Flight category for his encounter with short-eared owls during a magical evening in Canada. The competition also recognized striking images of Atlantic puffins and gentoo penguins, highlighting bird species in a variety of environments around the globe.
Why it feels good
This contest shines a light on the beauty and diversity of birdlife, reminding us of the fragile yet resilient nature of these species. The winning images not only showcase incredible photographic skill but also draw attention to the natural behaviors and habitats of birds, many of which face environmental threats.
The coverage of birds like the northern gannet and short-eared owl offers a hopeful perspective during challenging times for wildlife. It encourages appreciation for conservation efforts and brings a sense of connection to nature through the artistry of photography, making the experience uplifting for both bird enthusiasts and the general public.
What to enjoy or watch next
Explore the full gallery of winning photos to see more breathtaking wildlife moments from around the world. These images offer inspiration for aspiring photographers and nature lovers alike, revealing birds in stunning detail and dynamic action.
For those interested in following up, previous years’ Bird Photographer of the Year competitions provide a fascinating archive of evolving wildlife stories. Additionally, keep an eye out for future competitions and exhibitions where these and new bird photographs celebrate the connection between people and nature.