Wildlife Photography Competition 2026
Our Wildlife Photography Competition invited colleagues to share their favourite wildlife moments, from breathtaking close-ups to unexpected encounters and hidden gems found in nature.
We were delighted by the number and quality of entries, which showcased not only impressive photography skills but also a genuine appreciation for the natural world. Choosing the winners was no easy task, with our judging panel carefully considering each photograph before selecting the standout images in each category.
Congratulations to all of our winners, and thank you to everyone who entered and shared their wonderful photographs. Explore the winning entries below and discover the stories, beauty and humour captured through the lens of our talented colleagues.
![]() | Winner of the Macro Magic Category:Anthony Fontana"I was walking along the River Thames in Abingdon at dusk after a particularly challenging day. It was within our first two weeks of moving to the UK from the US, and my young children had been making it known through their behaviours that they wanted to go home. I took a walk to clear my head and have a few minutes to focus on nature. It was nice to actually notice a small snail after being so disconnected from nature these past six months trying to coordinate this move. I laid down on my belly and looked this little guy eye-to-eye and snapped a couple pictures; it was exactly what I was hoping to accomplish that evening". |
![]() | Winner of the Unexpected Encounters CategoryCharlotte Thompson-Grant"I took this photo during half-term week, May 2026, at the end of a hot day. I'd been hearing the song thrush repeatedly in the evenings and also early mornings - with his loud, elaborate and joyful song! Thrushes are often heard but not seen... |
![]() | Winner of the Hidden Gems CategoryLucy Bridges"During the winter, a large tree fell in my local park. It looks quite messy, but it's now providing shelter and a home for wildlife. One day I noticed two kingfishers flying around the base of the tree. They were busy digging a nest in the roots of the fallen tree and I was able to photograph them while they were taking a rest. It was just a small hole in amongst the mud and roots, almost impossible to see from the other side of the pond, but it provided a home for this special family". |
![]() | Winner of the Wildlife Shenanigans CategoryLei Clifton"A very public argument over who finished the shrimp". |



