Murcia’s award-winning wildlife photos showcase region’s stunning natural spaces

The breathtaking wildlife in the Region of Murcia has taken centre stage on World Photography Day this August, as the winning photographs of the new edition of the #MeGustaRegiónDeMurcia photography competition have finally been announced. The competition, organised by the Ministry of Environment, Industry, Universities, Research and Mar Menor, received 61 incredible photographs of natural spaces in Murcia, showcasing the incredible animals that call the region home.

Wildlife takes top spots and centre stage in regional contest

This competition, now in its fourth edition, invited amateur and professional photographers in the region to showcase their work and their love for the beauty of Murcia’s natural spaces. From July 24 to August 16, the region’s talented and emerging photography buffs submitted their works, showcasing everything from Murcia’s Regional Park of the Salinas and Arenales of San Pedro del Pinatar to remote areas in the Sierra Espuña mountain range.

Winning shots highlight protected natural spaces

Notably, the three top winners in this year’s edition all featured animals. The grand prize was given to the photograph “Splash to capture”, taken by Pablo García, in the Regional Park of the Salinas and Arenales of San Pedro del Pinatar. The incredible photograph shows a slender-billed gull gracefully diving to capture food.

The second prize went to “The Red Foxes”, taken by Arancha Cánovas, in the Sierra Espuña Regional Park. The photo shows a fox looking piercingly into the camera.

Finally, the third prize went to “Communication”, taken by Sergio García, also in the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park. The photo depicts two flamingos interacting.

The jury, a group of talented photographers and critics, assessed the photographs according to various criteria, including technical quality, originality, and ability to convey the values ​​of natural spaces. These three images were chosen as the best of the best to showcase the richness and uniqueness of the natural wildlife of the Region of Murcia.

Sustainable tourism rewards for local photographers

Some of the prizes for this year’s edition of the competition included one night’s accommodation for two people, including dinner, at one of the establishments that form part of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in the Sierra Espuña Regional Park; an active tourism experience for two people, including lunch, in one of the Protected Areas of the Region of Murcia; and a meal for two at one of the restaurants within the Protected Areas of the Region of Murcia.

With another successful edition wrapped up, the photography competition gave residents a chance to experience the breathtaking Region of Murcia through the eyes of these artists, as well as celebrate the natural heritage and stunning animals that call the region home.