Wandering through a sea of blazing magenta fireweed, this polar bear hunted for Arctic terns among the rocks. After successfully netting a morning snack, it settled down among the flowers to rest, which is when photographer Christopher Paetkau snapped its portrait. The resultant shot led to him being declared the winner of the latest Nature Photography Contest.
“The scene was surreal,” said Paetkau, “the golden hues of sunrise mingled with the vibrant fireweed, creating a breathtaking backdrop. This fleeting experience was a powerful reminder of the raw magic and tranquillity of the Arctic wilderness.
The shot alludes, judges noted, to the adaptability of wildlife in changing environments.
