Bird Photo Competition 6 2014 : Results

Judges Comment
The elaborate courtship rituals of the grebe family have fascinated and delighted people for centuries. At the right time of year and in the right location, patient observation will be rewarded with wonderful behavioral displays. Recording these photographically, though, requires composure and quick reflexes. This image has not only captured the natural spectacle but, through the 'three plus two' grouping and reflections, has achieved a great photographic composition.
Photographers Comment
Many thanks to my friend Brian Caldwell who showed me this spot where the grebes were dancing. We went at sunrise, and I hauled my 500 f4 Canon lens out there. You need reach, light, and speed. I used a high ISO to enable a shutter speed of 1/2000th at f8. I went for two mornings and shot lots of wonderful dancing grebes. This was clearly the best as it lined up so perfectly. Canon EOSMark 1V John Hendrickson

Judges Comment
Even without the added interest of the insect and raindrops, this would be a beautiful portrait of one of the world's most striking birds.

Judges Comment
An incredible 'pro' image of a flying kestrel with a lizard, taken in great light. The tight crop shows off the extreme sharpness, with detail in both feathers and scales.

Judges Comment
Although obviously digitally manipulated, this is a well-conceived, arresting and memorable image.

Judges Comment
Flocks of starlings and other species gathering to roost for the night are one of Nature's most spectacular sights. The way this flock mirrors the shapes of the clouds lit by the setting sun sums up the phenomenon perfectly.

Judges Comment
Everyone loves kingfisher photos and this perfectly-timed action shot freezes this bird doing what kingfishers do best.
Photographers Comment
I have the chance to follow this bird for years near my home
https://500px.com/lemarcost

Judges Comment
Through regular feeding, anyone can attract and photograph a variety of bird species. Eventually, with practice and patience, action shots such as this pair of Greenfinches are achievable.

Judges Comment
As bird photographers develop their skills, they often move on from the commoner species, but this beautifully posed and lit Mallard flight shot shows what they're missing.

Judges Comment
Whether you're in the wild or at the zoo, it's worth keeping an eye out for creative and/or humorous photo opportunities. This 'emu tree' is a great example.
Photographers Comment
My passion is humorous street photography that involves animals, so naturally I spend a lot of time at my local zoo (Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle). I took this shot of an emu using my X100T. This emu lives in a grassy pasture with another emu and several wallabies and wallaroos. This is one of my favorite exhibits because the keepers can freely mingle with the animals to care for them.
www.flickr.com/jillmaguire