Milinda Nonis, Three is a crowd… but a beautiful one (ANIMALS 2026)

Three Yellow-billed Spoonbills rest among the sculptural branches of a lakeside tree in Centenary Park, Belmont, Western Australia. Rendered in monochrome, the image distils form, balance, and stillness. Each bird faces a different direction, creating a quiet tension between repose and vigilance. Photographed from a respectful distance, this fleeting alignment was the result of many return visits and a single fortunate moment. The intricate lattice of branches frames the trio, transforming the tree into both sanctuary and stage. More than a wildlife portrait, the photograph reflects patience, impermanence, and the understated beauty of urban biodiversity. It captures a rare convergence of light, form, and behaviour—one that never repeated itself.

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