Catherine Nixson
August's photo competition theme was 'Colours of Summer'. Our reserves are bursting with life and colour at this time of year, and this month's entries beautifully captured the flora and fauna that can be seen in our region during summer.
Thank you to everyone who took part this month; there were several photos that were really loved by our voters. However, there can only be one winner...
This month's winner, chosen via public vote, is Catherine Nixson. Congratulations!
Catherine's winning photo, 'Winged Triumph', can be seen below.
Catherine Nixson
Catherine skilfully captured this dynamic shot of a male kingfisher with a fresh catch at Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve. In Catherine's own words:
"Highlighting the raw energy immediately following a successful hunt, this frame captures the kingfisher in mid-shake on its perch. With wings fully fanned and water droplets flying through the air, the shot freezes a fleeting moment of triumphant wild behaviour."
Our voters loved the vibrant colours in this image and appreciated the patience and skill involved in getting the shot. Comments from voters included:
"Amazing action shot, showing off the birds beautiful plumage. Love the dripping water detail too. I'm guessing patience was needed for this one."
"Great action photo of a beautiful kingfisher - so difficult to find never mind photograph. Beautiful colours and with its meal too."
"Great sharpness and captured the movement of the bird shaking its body and you can see the tiny water droplets…. Love it"
While we received entries depicting a wide variety of species, kingfishers were clearly the star of the show this month!
This month's very close runner up is Beth Shiels with the image 'Bathed in light', also taken at Lunt Meadows.
Beth Sheils
Describing how this image was a great fit for our theme this month, Beth said: "I love how the warm summer light contrasts with the kingfisher's vibrant blue plumage. It's a reminder of the beauty that can be found in nature and wildlife."
Our voters commented:
"The sunlight reflecting on the water makes the kingfisher colours shine."
"Stunning capture of a very colourful but rapid and elusive bird!"
"What a fantastic moment, and I love the contrast of colours."
Congratulations Beth!
September's theme is 'Tranquil moments'. Whether it's misty mornings over wetlands, reflections in calm waters, or quiet woodlands, it's your chance to slow down and capture the peaceful scenes you come across at our nature reserves and the sense of tranquillity that being out in nature can bring.
The deadline for submissions is 11:59pm on Sunday 6th September 2026. The winning image will be featured in our 2027 wildlife calendar, and the winner will receive their own copy.
For further information and our full terms and conditions, please read here.
Let us know what you think about the voters' selections via our Facebook page, and keep an eye out for next month's crop of entries which will be shared on our social media pages, ready for you to vote for your favourite.
