Summer is here, and the BC SPCA is back with its annual Wildlife-in-Focus photography contest, which asks people to send in their best shots of B.C.'s amazing wildlife.
Amateur photographers 14 years and older can submit their awe-inspiring images of bears, bees, Bighorn sheep, birds, and other amazing creatures — which don't have to start with the letter "b" — until July 22. You can enter as many times as you like, and there is no entry fee.
“Wildlife-in-Focus celebrates the incredible variety of wild animals who call B.C. home," says BC SPCA wild animal welfare specialist Nadia Xenakis. “It is also a great opportunity for British Columbians to showcase engaging with natural spaces in an ethical and responsible way, all while helping wild animals at Wild ARC."
Wild ARC is the BC SPCA's centre that supports the rehabilitation of wild animals. In 2023, Wildlife-in-Focus raised more than $10,000 for the specialized diets, treatment, blankets, and other supplies necessary to support Wild ARC and the more than 2,000 injured and orphaned wild animals that are cared for there each year.
Previous contest entries have been featured in the BC SPCA’s AnimalSense and Bark! magazines, BC SPCA educational materials, local newspapers, websites, and social media. Prizes will be awarded for the top three photos, as determined by the judges, in each of two categories: Wild Settings and Backyard Habitats.
There is also a donate-to-vote option for a People’s Choice Award, with the 12 photos with the most votes and the top three from each category featured in a limited edition Wildlife-in-Focus pack of greeting cards. There is also a chance to be featured on a limited edition tote bag, which will be available for purchase on shop.spca.bc.ca after the contest closes.
All photos of wildlife entered must be taken within B.C. and submitted digitally. “Wildlife” includes free-living birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish, and insects, but not exotic, feral, or domestic animals, or wildlife in zoos, aquariums, or rehabilitation facilities.
For more information, or to enter, visit https://bit.ly/3PcYMP2.
