These days, bird photography - and wildlife photography in general - is used for many purposes, including decorative, commercial, editorial, conservational and so on. Originally, though, its primary purpose was the scientific recording of species and their lifestyles. This image is a great example of this original documentary style. As amazing as it may seem, birds such as honey buzzards have evolved to feed on the larvae and nests of wasps, making use of both physical and chemical defences against stings. The fact that this behavioral image would surprise and inform most viewers shows that this genre still has an important role to play in today's media-saturated society.
Judges Comment