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Wildlife Pics That Totally Rocked Canadian Geographic’s 2026 Contest
Hey there! Today, we’re diving straight into some jaw-dropping wildlife photos from the 2026 Canadian Geographic Wildlife Photography contest. Over 10,000 shots were sent in, but only 18 photographers snagged a spot among the best of the best in four cool categories: Terrestrial Life, Aquatic Life, Flora and Fungi, and Things With Wings. Ready to meet some critters caught in wild action? Let’s jump in!
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Raccoon Peekaboo by Andrew Waterhouse
Check out this raccoon family curiously peeking from a tree hollow like they’re up to some nocturnal mischief.
Grebes’ Fancy Synchronized Swimming
These red-necked grebes in Toronto put on a splashy, noisy dance that’s all about grabbing attention.
Sticky Sundew Plant That’s Basically a Bug Trap
This carnivorous plant lures bugs with a sweet scent, then catches them with sticky drops. Nature’s sneaky little snack time!
Ruffed Grouse Taking Flight Like a Boss
A grouse blasting out of a tree like it just heard the craziest news ever - freeze frame moment!
Chill Octopus Hanging Out Underwater
A giant Pacific octopus just chilling in its kelp home like the boss of the ocean floor.
Sandworm Swimming Party
This colorful sandworm decided to swim up for the spring mating fiesta. Not your average beach critter!
Grizzly Siblings Having a Playfight in the Rain
Two bear siblings make rainy days look like play days in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest.
Black Bear Cubs on the Lookout
These little black bear cubs are on high alert, following mum through Waterton Lakes like the tiny explorers they are.
Mink Mid-Dash to Steal the Show
This American mink isn’t just fast - it’s flashing some serious attitude while dashing through the brush.
Black-Bellied Plover Takes Flight
Watch this black-bellied plover nail the smooth takeoff from a lake in Alberta.
Sandpiper Fueling Up for the Big Trip
A lone sandpiper stuffing its pockets for the epic fall migration ahead. Bon voyage!
Grouse Showdown for Love
Sharp-tailed grouse throw down an ancient dance-off to impress the ladies near Wainwright, Alberta.
Sandhill Crane’s Feather Fix-Up
A sandhill crane getting its feathers on point, practicing early bird glam at Burnaby Lake.
Prairie Crocus Bathing in Spring Sunshine
A pasqueflower soaking up the warm spring vibes at Cranberry Flats. Spring has officially landed!
Lichens Doing Their Sunny Thing
Sunlight sneaking through lichens hanging out over Khutzeymateen Inlet. Nature’s own stained glass!
Scheuchzer’s Cottongrass Looking Fluffy on Ice
This fluffy cottongrass is the North’s version of snow goose - delicate and ready to brighten a snowy landscape.
Fly on a Mission: Parasite edition
This thick-headed fly isn’t just hanging out; it’s scouting bees and wasps to sneak a parasitic party on their larvae.
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