Joseph Gittany, The Outbacks Gentle Rock-star (NATURE WILDERNESS 2024)

In the heart of Australia’s rugged desert, just off the road to Simpsons Gap, I was lucky enough to meet the Outback’s own rock star: a pink cockatoo, perched gracefully against the iconic red-hued Macdonnell Ranges. Equipped with my Canon RF 100-500mm lens, I took the shot of a lifetime as this radiant bird posed, completely unfazed, almost as if it enjoyed the attention. This encounter was a rare, treasured glimpse of the cockatoo in its arid element, a serene scene I feel privileged to share.

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