Wildlife photographer of the year exhibition arrives at Jersey Zoo

The Wildlife photographer of the year exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, will open at Jersey Zoo from 31st August to 29th September 2024. The exhibition features exceptional images that capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world. Using photography’s unique emotive power to engage and inspire audiences, the images shine a light on stories and species around the world and encourage a future of advocating for the planet.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases some of the best photography talent from around the world. Launching in 1965, today the competition receives entries from 95 countries all over the world, highlighting its enduring appeal.

Commenting on the exhibition, Durrell’s CEO (Interim) Rebecca Brewer says: “This stunning display of nature photography is guaranteed to inspire and connect our visitors to the diversity of the natural world. The images are also a powerful reminder of both the beauty we strive to protect and the threats many species face, highlighting the vital importance of Durrell’s conservation work across the globe. We look forward to seeing the excitement and inspiration this exhibition will bring to Islanders. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and celebrate the incredible talent of these photographers.”

This year’s award-winning images have embarked on an international tour allowing them to be seen by over a million people. This year’s competition attracted 49,957 entries from photographers of all ages and experience levels from 95 countries. Entries were judged anonymously on their creativity, originality, and technical excellence by an international panel of industry experts.

The winning images, including the Grand Title Award winners, were announced on 10th October 2023 during an awards show hosted by wildlife presenters Chris Packham and Megan McCubbin.

Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum says: “We are facing urgent biodiversity and climate crises, and photography is a powerful catalyst for change. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition reveals some of nature’s most wondrous sights whilst offering hope and achievable actions visitors can take to help protect the natural world.”

Chair of the judging panel, Kathy Moran says: “What most impressed the jury was the range of subjects, from absolute beauty, rarely seen behaviours and species to images that are stark reminders of what we are doing to the natural world. We felt a powerful tension between wonder and woe that we believe came together to create a thought-provoking collection of photographs.”