The Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, celebrating its 60th year, has crowned a Canadian photographer, Shane Gross, as the winner. Gross’s captivating image of western toad tadpoles emerged victorious from a record-breaking pool of 59,228 entries from 117 countries. The judges were captivated by the interplay of light, energy, and the connection between the tadpoles and their environment. They were also thrilled to add this new species to the competition’s archive.
The western toad, facing threats from habitat destruction and predators, has a grim survival rate with only 1% reaching adulthood. Gross captured his winning shot while snorkeling through lily pads in Cedar Lake on Vancouver Island, taking meticulous care to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem. The competition also recognized a young photographer, Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas from Germany, for his remarkable close-up image of a springtail insect and slime mould fruiting bodies. This image underscores the vital role these often-overlooked creatures play in maintaining soil health.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, opening on October 11, 2024, will showcase 100 stunning photographs from around the globe, including this year’s highly commended entries. The exhibition will also feature a timeline highlighting key moments in the competition’s history. The competition highlights the importance of capturing the beauty and vulnerability of the natural world, with each photograph telling a unique story.
The exhibition provides a glimpse into the diverse lives of various species, from the mating rituals of Dawson’s burrowing bees to the powerful presence of a jaguar hunting a caiman. The images demonstrate the remarkable skills of wildlife photographers who brave extreme conditions to capture these extraordinary moments. From the stoic grace of a frosted deer to the vibrant plumage of a peafowl, the competition showcases the artistry and dedication of photographers who strive to connect viewers with the wonders of the natural world.
Beyond the breathtaking aesthetics, the competition also serves as a platform to raise awareness about conservation efforts and the challenges facing wildlife. The images of crabeater seals, threatened by climate change and tourism, and the bycatch of a requiem shark, highlighting the unsustainable practices of industrial fishing, serve as stark reminders of the human impact on the planet.
The competition’s 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the celebration of wildlife photography and the importance of conservation. It is a testament to the dedication of photographers who share a passion for capturing the beauty and fragility of the natural world and inspire others to act as stewards of our planet.
