The winners of the British Wildlife Photography Awards 2026 have been announced, and this year’s top prize went to Paul Hobson for his striking image of a toad swimming across a woodland reflection, captured from a pond-floor perspective in Sheffield, England.
Out of more than 12,000 entries from both amateur and professional photographers competing for the £3,500 grand prize, Hobson’s shot stood out for its unique perspective and captivating composition. The Young British Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 was awarded to Ben Lucas for his heartwarming photo of a mute swan cygnet resting on its sibling.
The BWPA continues to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Britain’s wildlife while highlighting the importance of protecting its woodlands, wetlands, and other vital ecosystems.
#21 Animal Behaviour, Winner: Nemesis By Mark Parker
Because the sparrowhawk had never gone to ground before on previous visits to the garden and not knowing how long it would stay, I just wanted to get an image to record the event before then concentrating on my settings. The story I think the image portrays, is evident in the eye contact between the two subjects and the vice-like grip they have on each other, however, the eye contact and grip of the juvenile starling is out of pure fear whilst that of its nemesis is one of dominance and relief in finally catching a much needed meal.
6points