UPY 2025

UPY 2019 British Waters Wide Angle - Highly Commended
'Grey Seal face'
Greg Lecoeur

For many years grey seals have been hunted by humans for their fur and fat, particularly in the 19th century, they have disappeared from many areas of their normal range. They are currently protected by some national and international regulations, but continues to suffer from unintentional catches, poaching (gunfire) and pollution (due to its position at the top of the food chain, its organism is particularly loaded with marine pollutants). In the Farne Islands, they are now protected and large colonies cohabit with humans, becoming one of the tourist interests of this region.

Judge's comment: Grey seals are a perennial favourite in UPY as one of the UK's star wildlife attractions. This upside-down portrait is quirky and cute and easily won the affections of the judging panel. Great to see an overseas photographer coming to the UK to show us how it's done!
Alex Mustard