Wildlife Photographer of the Year - Animal Portraits
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Animal Portraits
Winning Photo
The story behind the winning photo
The Kalahari Desert, a land of stark contrasts and relentless challenges, sets the stage for an epic struggle captured by a renowned wildlife photographer. Amidst the harsh conditions, life hangs in balance, waiting for the arrival of the rains that determine survival.
A Photographer's Perspective
October brings prime viewing opportunities as wildlife congregates around dwindling waterholes. Amidst swirling dust and biting winds, the photographer observes a haunting scene—a landscape littered with the remnants of majestic Eland, drawing a diverse array of scavengers.
White-backed Vultures
Witnessing the Vulture Ritual: Nature's Hierarchy in Action
White-backed Vultures dominate the scene, descending with eerie silence upon Camel thorns, their powerful forms a testament to survival in the Kalahari. Amidst chaotic squabbles for sustenance, the photographer patiently waits, poised to capture moments of aggression and dominance.
White-backed Vultures fight over carcass
The Arrival of the Lappet-faced Vulture: A Majestic Intruder
As the dust settles, a Lappet-faced Vulture commands attention, its presence shifting the dynamics of the feast. White-backed Vultures yield to this formidable competitor, highlighting the intricate hierarchy among scavengers.
The Photographer's Lens: Capturing Nature's Bounty
Despite harsh midday light, the photographer's dedication pays off as each click immortalizes the drama unfolding before them. From airborne skirmishes to the serene aftermath, the camera captures the essence of vulture behaviour in exquisite detail.
Lappet-faced vulture
A Privileged Perspective
Over sixty White-backed Vultures, accompanied by rare sightings of Lappet-faced Vultures, Bateleur, Tawny Eagle, and Lanner Falcon, converge on the carcass—a testament to nature's cycle of life and death. This spectacle, recorded with reverence, offers print buyers and wildlife enthusiasts alike a glimpse into the raw beauty and harsh realities of the Kalahari.
tawny eagle
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of wildlife photography.
Browse our gallery of award-winning prints capturing the essence of nature's drama in the Kalahari. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts seeking unparalleled glimpses into the natural world.
Author Peter Delaney