White on blue - Martin Gregus Jr. - Wildlife Photographer of the Year2008

2008: 11-14 Years - Specially Commended

Martin Gregus Jr. Enlarge image White on blue

Martin Gregus Jr. (Canada/Slovakia)

White on blue

'I often go to a quay near my home in Vancouver, Canada, to take photographs of cruise ships and birds. After weeks of constant rain, it was a relief to head out on a cold, sunny day. The herring gulls obviously thought so, too, because they seemed more animated than usual. I like the sharp, contrasting colours of this shot, and the way the pristine white tail feathers fan out against the bright light.' The herring gull is one of the most common coastal birds in Europe and North America. A predator and opportunist, these large, noisy birds will eat almost anything. They have adapted well to living around humans and frequently scavenge from rubbish tips and fishing harbours.

Nikon D70 + 80-400mm f4.5-5.6 AF VR Nikkor lens at 300mm; 1/2000 sec at f5.6; ISO 200.

This photograph is available to buy as a print.