More than 300 photographers entered this year’s competitionOn A Platter by Michael Jones, the winning image in this year's Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition. Urban, rural and ocean wildlife, capturing incredible behaviours and relationships, are showcased by this year’s Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition winners.There was a high level of skill on display from more than 300 photographers who entered, as well as a wide range of animals, plants and habitats. To see these prints in person visit the Sonairte Eco-Centre in Laytown, Co Meath from 2pm on Saturday July 11th until August 31st.The final shortlist was presented by Irish Environmental Network.Top Water Dog by Chris Martin which came in second place this year. The judges said 'a fabulous image of chasing otters on the bank of the River Lee in Cork City - again, a wonderful image of these powerful creatures, crisp detail showing the power and beauty of these elusive river / estuary dwellers as they protect their patch'. The Kiss by Mich Elliot which came in third place. The judges said 'an endearing image of the often-maligned pigeon, visually strong, detail in the eyes and colour detail throughout fabulous an image that really draws the viewer in. A pigeon kiss also called ‘Billing’ happens as pigeons are pairing up during the mating season'. Life on the Ledge by Ivan Donoghue which won the Ocean category in this years Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition. The judges said 'this photo clearly stood out for the thought and care that went into framing this scene in the underwater world'. Sea Hare by Andre Astraharchik, a highly commended image in the Ocean category. Starlings fighting, Cobh, Cork by Pawel Curylo, one of the highly commended entries. Crab Spider by Celine Nic Oireachtaigh. Female Mason bee returning with full basket of pollen by Phil Greaves, one of the highly commended entries. Hooded Crow by Martin McNamara was also one of the high commended entries. Juvenile Fish Blue Jellyfish, Kerry by John Collins, one of the entries in the Ocean category. Night Garden by Sinead Keys, one of the entries in the Ocean category. Bubble Nudibranch, by Annegret Pfuetzner was highly commended for showcasing the detail of the fragile and wonderful life supported by one of Ireland's most valuable ecosystems - Seagrass. IN THIS SECTION
In pictures: Biodiversity Photographer of the Year winners 2026
All the winning images from this years Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition









