After more than 24,000 pictures from around the world were submitted into the renowned competition, the Bird Photographer of the Year winners have been revealed.
And it was a British snapper who claimed the £3,000 prize money this year with an extraordinary submission from under water.
Henley Spiers was named grand prizewinner after capturing a gannet mid-dive as it plunges into Scottish waters in search of prey at speeds of up to 86km/h (53mph).
Mr Spiers said of his image, named Sunball Rocket, and competition victory: ‘The handsome northern gannets lead a dualistic existence.
‘In the nest, their newborn is carefully nurtured, and a couple’s bond is reinforced by pointing sharp beaks to the sky as they tenderly stroke their white necks together.
‘In flight, hunting mode takes over, and piercing yellow eyes, fringed with blue circles, scour the sea for prey.
‘When fish are spotted, the gannets fly into the wind and stretch out their wings as brakes, precisely adjusting their position in relation to their quarry.
‘Moments later, with wings tucked in tightly, the gannet shape-shifts into a pointed torpedo, diving into the water at speeds of up to 86km/h.’
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