PREVIEW

Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus. Lake Kerkini, Greece.
Photographer: Caron Steele, United Kingdom. Category: Best Portrait. PEOPLE’S CHOICE CATEGORY WINNER, GOLD AWARD WINNER AND BIRD PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR WINNER.
Photographer's Story: ‘On arriving in Greece to photograph the Dalmatian Pelicans in their breeding plumage I discovered that Lake Kerkini, their favoured haunt, had frozen for the first time in 16 years; all the pelicans had flown off. Fortunately, a few holes started to thaw in the lake and the birds slowly began to return. Unused to the slippery icy surface of the lake they regaled us with hilarious antics as they slid across the lake surface trying to retain control as they took off and landed. I was lucky enough to capture one such rare moment when this magnificent pelican ran towards me across the ice at dusk before taking off. It was a truly unique experience, both magical and comical at the same time. And the image remains a moment of pure joy captured forever.’