Bearing nature’s beauty and fragility – snoozing king of the Arctic wins photo contest
The shot alludes, judges noted, to the adaptability of wildlife in changing environments, as well as their vulnerability
Wandering through a sea of blazing magenta fireweed, this polar bear hunted for Arctic terns among the rocks. After successfully netting a morning snack, it settled down among the flowers to rest, which is when photographer Christopher Paetkau snapped its portrait. The resultant shot led to him being declared the winner of the latest Nature Photography Contest.
“The scene was surreal,” said Paetkau, “the golden hues of sunrise mingled with the vibrant fireweed, creating a breathtaking backdrop. This fleeting experience was a powerful reminder of the raw magic and tranquillity of the Arctic wilderness.
The shot alludes, judges noted, to the adaptability of wildlife in changing environments.
Winner, Photography of the Year. ‘Polar Bear Amid Fireweed Blooms’. Credit: Christopher Paetkau / www.thenaturephotocontest.com
But it also highlights the vulnerability of polar bears as the climate crisis warms the Arctic, damaging the sea ice habitats on which the bears rely to hunt, live and breed.
It’s the second year of the photography contest, which is designed to pay tribute to our planet’s delicate beauty, said organisers, as they unveiled the 12 category winners.
This fleeting experience was a powerful reminder of the raw magic and tranquillity of the Arctic wilderness
They are now preparing for the third edition, which will launch in May. “These photographs are more than just images: they are calls to action,” explained Lesley de Beer, competition manager.
“We seek to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us and the responsibility we all share in protecting it.”
Fresh perspectives: more of the contest’s winners
Winner, Photographer of the Year. ‘Emperor Spy’. Credit: Thomas Vijayan / www.thenaturephotocontest.com
Category Winners: The Nature Photography Contest 2024
Main image: Polar Bear Amid Fireweed Blooms, by Christopher Paetkau / www.thenaturephotocontest.com
Visit www.thenaturephotocontest.com to find out more