The photo contest judges enjoyed a lively discussion reviewing all of the best images. We are so pleased that we could name four winners for this photo period. And an interesting selection including an insect, mammal, and feathered friends showing all the best of their wildlife personalities – on the move and a simple breath. We are so grateful to Sierra Nevada Conservancy for supporting the California Wildlife Photo Contest of the Year for it’s entire 15 years.
Photographer: Neely Dunlap
Valley Carpenter Bee – Santa Clara
A male valley carpenter bee in flight, actively chasing away other male carpenter bees to defend his territory during the early evening hours.
Nikon Z8, NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S, f 4.5. 1/5000 sec. 18,000 ISO
Photographer: Brian Caldwell
California Quail – Lake Hodges
Once in a lifetime? Incredible that it was cool enough in April in San Diego County to see the backlit breath of a male California Quail vocalizing!
Canon R5, EF 100-400mm w 1.4x
Photographer: Randy Finley
Bobcat – Point Reyes National Seashore
A bobcat heading out to hunt for her kittens at last light.
Nikon Z9, 300 mm f/2.8+1.4 TC, f/4, ISO-1000, 1/800th
Photographer: Heather Gaburo
Osprey – Taylor Creek State Park
An osprey just before it enters the water, with talons out, wings tucked, and eyes locked on its target. This moment is fleeting, and capturing it cleanly takes a mix of timing, a steady hand, a bit of luck, and plenty of missed frames.
Canon R5 Mark II, RF200-800 F6.3-9 IS USM, 1/3200s @ f/9.0, 672mm
