The Birds of the World Challenge 2024

In this blog, we’re excited to share our highly commended, runner-up, and winning images selected for the Birds of the World category in the 2024 Pangolin Photo Challenge, along with the camera settings used to capture these incredible shots!

The Birds of the World Challenge is one of our most popular categories, and this year’s entries were truly impressive. Photographers were asked to capture stunning wild birds in their natural environments, showcasing their beauty and diversity. The challenge focused on authentic, respectful photography with a no-baiting or captive bird rule.

The winner of this category will receive a 6-night stay for one person at The Pangolin Chobe Hotel or a $2,000 voucher to put towards any other Pangolin Photo Safari on our website!

View the video here, then share your thoughts on who you think should win. Afterwards, check out our amazing images below to see if your predictions were right.

ILCE-1 with an FE 600mm F4 GM OSS

f/6.3 | 1/640 | 600 mm | ISO 640

This heartwarming photograph by Donald Chin captures a tender moment of family love in the wild. A mother Great Crested Grebe gently cuddles her youngest chick, while an older sibling swims toward them and lovingly gives a kiss to the younger one. Another chick is nestled safely beneath the mother’s wings, enjoying the warmth and protection she provides. The image beautifully showcases the care and affection within this Grebe family, highlighting the nurturing side of wildlife.

Canon EOS R5 with a RF400mm F2.8 L IS USM

f/3.2 | 1/3200 | 400 mm | ISO 10000

Captured with a Canon EOS R5 and RF400mm F2.8 L IS USM lens, this stunning image showcases two Blue-vented Hummingbirds locked in an intense aerial battle in the Talamanca Mountains of Costa Rica. These tiny, fiercely territorial birds are often seen engaging in dynamic chases and displays of dominance as they compete for access to nectar-filled flowers. The photograph freezes this moment in time, highlighting both the beauty and aggression of the hummingbirds in their natural, high-stakes struggle.

NIKON Z 8 with a NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR

f/8 | 1/400 | 180 mm | ISO 9000

Captured by Jane Richards, this tranquil photograph features a Great Blue Heron resting on a moss-covered tree limb, basking in the soft sunlight filtering through the Cypress trees of the bayou. Taken on a cool November morning, the heron’s elegant form stands in striking contrast to the rich, earthy tones of the trees, pulling you into a moment of quiet serenity.

Canon with an RF 400mm f/2.8 L IS USM

f/2.8 | 1/160 | 400 mm | ISO 2000

In the soft light of a cold, early morning, this shot captures the Black Grouse during its ritual mating dance. The male bird stands proud, his striking plumage highlighted by the gentle dawn light, while the air is filled with his distinctive bubbling call. This moment, full of grace and raw energy, feels like a snapshot of nature at its most intimate. For Nuno, it remains an all-time favourite.

Canon EOS R5 with an RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM

f/2.8 | 1/200 | 200 mm | ISO 800

Captured during a quiet evening in Sabi Sands, this image shows Helmet Shrikes settling down for the night. As Gary and his group were heading back to camp, they heard soft chattering above them. A quick sweep of the lamp revealed a line of birds perched and preparing to sleep. Some of the expressions on their faces bring a touch of humour, making this peaceful moment in the wild even more captivating.

NIKON Z 9 with a NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S

f/5 | 1/6400 | 600 mm | ISO 800

William Ko captured this stunning shot of a Pied Kingfisher early in the morning. The bird’s wings are fully extended in mid-dive, almost perfectly symmetrical, creating a striking visual balance. The precision and timing of the shot beautifully showcase the bird in action, highlighting its incredible agility and grace.

Canon EOS R3 with an RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

f/7.1 | 1/320 | 500 mm | ISO 200

This dramatic and breathtaking image by Giovanni captures the intensity of a Great Grey Owl flying directly toward the camera. With its piercing yellow eyes and powerful wings spread wide, the owl seems almost suspended in the snow-filled air of Finland. Giovanni recalls the moment, sharing that he was in a car searching for birds when snow began to fall. Soon after, he spotted the Great Grey Owl and waited for the perfect shot as it took flight, creating an unforgettable scene full of both beauty and raw nature.

DJI MINI 3 PRO

f/1.7 | 1/1250 | 24 mm | ISO 130

Captured at Lake Bogoria, in Kenya, during the rainy season in April 2024, this image shows flamingos arranged in the shape of Africa, with the water resembling heart arteries. Alexandre Bès witnessed the rapid rise in water levels, driven by climate change and deforestation, which threatens the flamingos’ food source and forces them to relocate. This poignant photo highlights the urgent need to protect the Rift Valley’s fragile ecosystems from climate change and invasive species.

Canon EOS R3 with an RF400mm F2.8 L IS USM

f/2.8 | 1/5000 | 400 mm | ISO 6400

This powerful runner-up in the 2024 Pangolin Photo Challenge captures a young Sparrowhawk in full attack mode on a Eurasian Jay during a chilly, frosty morning. The image vividly showcases the predator-prey dynamic—sparrowhawks are renowned for their swift, agile hunting style, while the Eurasian Jay’s defensive stance reveals its desperate efforts to escape. The frosty stillness of the morning heightens the tension, offering a raw, intense glimpse into the survival struggle between two contrasting species.

Canon EOS R7 with an RF400mm F2.8 L IS USM

f/2.8 | 1/3200 | 400 mm | ISO 800

This year’s winner of the Birds of the World category in the 2024 Pangolin Photo Challenge is a breathtaking shot by Patryk Kurc, featuring the elegance of a Crested Grebe. The bird is bathed in a golden glow, with silver light surrounding it, giving the image an almost magical feel. It’s a striking photograph that truly showcases Patryk’s talent and unique perspective.

Congratulations, Patryk, on the well-deserved win!

You have won a 6-night stay for one person at The Pangolin Chobe Hotel or a $2,000 voucher to put toward any Pangolin Photo Safari! Please contact challenge@pangolinphoto.com to claim your prize.

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