The 2026 Audubon Photography Awards have turned up some truly ghostly sightings and dazzling displays of avian antics. Francisco Castro Escobar's ghostly lesser horned owl, perched like a spectral presence on a cactus, took home the top prize. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Burke's daring shot of a roseate spoonbill in Florida highlights the beauty and vulnerability of our feathered friends.

From the diving prowess of seabirds to the delicate behaviour of hummingbirds, these images paint a picture of the world's incredible avian diversity. Audubon's contest underscores the daily challenges birds face from human activities—like scavenging fishing nets for nests and risking their lives.

The winning photographs are a testament to the tenacity and patience required to capture nature at its finest. With dramatic close-ups and humorous glimpses of avian life, the winners remind us of the beauty we often overlook in our fast-paced world.

Visit the contest’s website to see all the winners and honorable mentions, including videos, for a closer look at these stunning images.