The Bird Photographer of the Year 2026 competition has crowned its new champion with a mesmerizing underwater capture full of delightful discoveries. A striking photograph of a northern gannet piercing through the ocean’s surface has claimed the top honor in the prestigious global contest. The enchanting scene was captured by UK-based photographer Henley Spiers in the waters of Scotland, earning him the grand prize of £3,000 ($4,000).
Discovering Underwater Surprises
Spiers describes the northern gannets as living a “dualistic existence,” where tenderness morphs into aggression between nesting and hunting. In their nurturing phase, they bond in harmony, but when on the hunt, they transform into precision predators. The birds dive at speeds up to 86km/h, illustrating their evolutionary finesse. These hidden wonders highlight the intricate behaviors and beauty beneath the waves.
This year’s competition was more than a showcase of artistry; it also contributed over £5,000 ($6,700) to Birds on the Brink. This funding supports grassroots efforts in global bird conservation, underscoring the event’s commitment to wildlife preservation. The competition revealed numerous enchanting scenes that further emphasize the need for conservation efforts.
Participants from around the world submitted over 24,000 entries across multiple categories, including Best Portrait, Bird Behaviour, and Urban Birds. The competition also offered youth categories, broadening its reach to budding photographers. These entries often capture unexpected discoveries that thrill both judges and audiences alike.
The competition’s director, Will Nicholls, highlighted the important contrast between genuine artistry and AI-generated images. Nicholls emphasized that authentic moments captured in the wild resonate deeply with audiences, celebrating authenticity and natural beauty. Many of these authentic moments involve aquatic wonders captured organically, showcasing the wonders beneath the surface.
Bird Photographer of the Year invites entrants of all levels to participate in its next cycle, BPOTY 12, via birdpoty.com, encouraging photographers to showcase their exceptional bird imagery and the potential for more fascinating underwater encounters.
UK-based photographer Henley Spiers won the Bird Photographer of the Year 2026 with a photograph of a northern gannet piercing through the ocean’s surface.
What prize was awarded to the winner?
Henley Spiers earned the grand prize of £3,000 ($4,000) for winning the Bird Photographer of the Year 2026.
What does the competition contribute to bird conservation?
The competition contributed over £5,000 ($6,700) to Birds on the Brink, supporting grassroots efforts in global bird conservation.
