Award-winning amazing animal pics
World Nature Photographer of the Year Jono captured this amazing picture of a baby humpback whale getting a cuddle from her mother: "Sharing this moment with Mãhina and her protective mother is a memory that will live with me forever. It was undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary days I have ever experienced in the ocean - and perhaps ever will."
- Published
The winners of the World Nature Photography Awards 2026 have been revealed - and the photos are out of this world!
Thousands of entries were sent into the annual competition from photographers in 51 countries and six different continents.
They were judged on their techniques and skill and how well they captured the beauty, fragility and power of the natural world.
This year's top winner was Australian photographer Jono Allen, for his image of a rare white humpback whale.
"To be announced World Nature Photographer of the Year through capturing this unique mother and calf bond has made what was already a truly life - changing encounter even more profound and humbling. I feel beyond honoured to receive this award."
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Mary Schrader won gold in the Animal Portraits category for this amazing picture of a female gorilla staring at a butterfly.
'A little to the left please!'
This funny snap of a moose was captured by Deena Sveinsson from the US, who won gold in the People and Nature category.
This Namaqua chameleon was captured by Dewald Tromp, battling against a sandstorm.
The picture won gold in the Behaviour - Amphibians and Reptiles category.
'Watch out below!'
This amazing snap was taken by Vince Burton from the UK, and won silver in the Behaviour - Birds category.
It shows a Barn Owl swooping in whilst hunting at night.
Just look at those talons! Yikes!
This lovely picture called 'bear hug' won silver in Behaviour - Mammals, category.
It was taken by Michael Stavrakakis.
Can you spot the animal?!
This picture won gold in Nature Art category - and was taken by Simon Biddie.
If you look hard enough you can see a Ghost goby hiding on a reef!
