Wildlife Photographer of the Year: Stunning Images Capture Nature's Beauty and Challenges

The 60th Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition has unveiled a captivating collection of highly commended images, showcasing the diverse beauty and challenges of the natural world. A record-breaking 59,228 entries from 117 countries were submitted, reflecting the global passion for capturing nature's wonders.

Judged by a panel of experts on their creativity, originality and technical excellence, the shortlisted images span a range of categories, including "10 Years and Under", "Natural Artistry", "Animals in their Environment", "Underwater", and "Oceans: The Bigger Picture".

One particularly striking image, captured on an iPhone XR, poignantly depicts the end of a mule deer doe's life on a frosty winter morning. This image marks a historic first, becoming the first smartphone photograph to receive a highly commended honour in the competition's history.

Among the other noteworthy images, viewers will find a captivating depiction of a "dancing" stoat, a sleeping seal, and the dramatic moment a caiman meets its fate at the jaws of a jaguar.

Kathy Moran, chair of the judging panel, commented on the diversity and powerful message conveyed by the shortlisted images: "In this selection you see species diversity, a range of behaviour and conservation issues. These images represent the evolution of the competition through the years, from pure natural history to photography that fully embraces representation of the natural world – the beauty and the challenges. It is a powerful selection with which to kickstart a milestone anniversary."

This year, the competition has introduced a new "Impact Award" for both the young and adult categories. This award recognises stories of conservation success, hope, or positive change, further highlighting the competition's commitment to environmental awareness.

The winners of each category, as well as the overall grand titles, will be announced on 8 October. A selection of 100 photographs from the competition will be showcased in an exhibition at London's Natural History Museum from 11 October, offering a captivating glimpse into the world's diverse and fascinating wildlife.

Editor's Note: Call to Earth is a CNN editorial series dedicated to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet and the solutions being developed. Rolex's Perpetual Planet Initiative has partnered with CNN to raise awareness and educate about key sustainability issues and to inspire positive action.