Robert Wengritzky, Lily Walker (NATURE WILDERNESS 2024)

This image showcases the delicate balance and grace of the Comb-crested Jacana, often called the 'Lily Walker' for its ability to walk on floating lily pads. Captured in Darwin's wetlands, the bird’s long toes spread across the leaves, allowing it to seemingly glide over the water’s surface. The lifted lily pad adds a sense of motion and interaction with its environment, highlighting the bird’s unique adaptation to its watery habitat. With its vibrant red crest and slender form, the Jacana's gentle steps epitomize elegance and survival in the wild

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.