“Urban Wildlife” Challenge 2023

In this week’s blog post, we showcase the images that earned recognition as Highly Commended and the overall winner in the Urban Wildlife category of our 2023 Pangolin Photo Challenge. Additionally, we provide detailed camera settings for each photograph.

The ‘Urban Wildlife’ challenge applauds the coexistence of nature and human habitats. In our Urban Wildlife category, photographers were tasked with capturing the diverse array of wildlife species thriving within urban landscapes across the globe.

To participate in this year’s challenge, click here to learn how to join the 2024 Pangolin Photo Challenge. It’s easy, free, and offers the chance to win exciting safari prizes!

Didn’t catch the Urban Wildlife Finalists video?

View the video here, and then share your thoughts on who should win. Afterwards, take a look at our outstanding images below to see if your predictions were correct.

Highly Commended
Man vs Nature, by David Fleeger

NIKON Z 9 with a VR 200-400mm f/4G

f/4 | 1/1000 | 400 mm | ISO 5000

In this image taken by David Fleeger, the intense interaction between humans and the natural world is depicted. Fleeger captures a powerful moment where the majestic polar bears of Manitoba meet with human activity and its traces.

Highly Commended
Birds of Taj Mahal, by Florian Kriechbaumer

OM-1 with an OLYMPUS M.40-150mm F2.8

f/2.8 | 1/8000 | 300 mm | ISO 200

Florian Kriechbaumer’s image, “Birds of Taj Mahal,” showcases an outline of India’s magnificent landmark against a backdrop of nature’s beauty. With skill and creativity, Kriechbaumer captures a tranquil moment amidst the vibrant setting of the Taj Mahal.

Highly Commended
Cemetery Visitor, by Michael Berwanger

NIKON D500 with an 80.0–400.0 mm f/4.5–5.6

f/5.6 | 1/640 | 142 mm | ISO 1100

In Michael Berwanger’s photograph titled “Cemetery Visitor,” a lone roebuck moves through an ancient cemetery in Vienna. Using his NIKON D500 camera and an 80.0–400.0 mm f/4.5–5.6 lens, Michael captures a moment of serene beauty within the contrast of life and death.

Highly Commended
Last Leg, by Mike Walker

Leica M6 camera with a 35mm Summicron ASPH F2 lens

In Mike Walker’s captivating photograph “Last Leg,” an emotional narrative unfolds amidst the setting of London’s Crystal Palace Park. With his Leica M6 camera and a 35mm Summicron ASPH F2 lens on 35mm film, Mike captures a fleeting moment of connection with an injured wild fox, echoing the haunting beauty of urban decay.

Highly Commended
Baboon Jenga, by Owen Cochrane

OM-1 with an OLYMPUS M.300mm F4.0

f/4 | 1/1600 | 601 mm | ISO 320

Owen Cochrane’s captivating photograph, titled “Baboon Jenga,” presents a fascinating fusion of city life and the wild. The image encourages viewers to contemplate the merging of nature and society, highlighting that within the busy urban landscape, there are still enchanting encounters with the untamed world.

Winner
Wild Art, by Daniela Anger

Canon EOS R5 with an RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

f/9 | 1/1000 | 100 mm | ISO 800

Daniela Anger’s stunning photograph, ‘Wild Art,’ has earned the top spot in our Urban Wildlife category, beautifully capturing the unique connection between humans and the crab-eating macaques of Lopburi, Thailand.

The image shows a macaque strolling past a graffiti portrait of itself. These macaques symbolise the region, attracting tourists while also causing tensions due to their growing population. Despite challenges like overpopulation and endangered status, these macaques continue to influence local art and culture. ‘Wild Art’ serves as a homage to the balance between urban life and wildlife preservation.

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