two birds
two birds and their reflection
puffins
a hummingbird
two pharaoh eagle-owl chicks
Pelicans
ducks
a bird and water droplets
red-headed cranes
cranes
a grey plover resting
two bald eagles
carmine bee-eaters flying
vultures
an eastern screech owl
cranes flying
a flamingo
a little egret standing against water current
an Indian eagle mid flight
two gannets fight during a courtship
a platoon of king penguins
a parrot's eye
flamingos in mating season
a pelican being thrown a fish to eat
green woodpecker feeding a young chick
two eagles
a stork
a red tailed hawk
a golden eagle
common tern feeding its young
pigeons cuddle on a branch in the rain
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"Birds of Australia." – Jongsung Ryu
Photograph by Jongsung Ryu, National Geographic Your Shot

Birds Around the World in 31 Incredible Photos

From stretched wings to hidden beaks, see striking photographs of birds in their global habitats.

ByCasey Smith
June 23, 2017

It’s not everyday that you witness two northern gannets fighting in Scotland or watch as a platoon of king penguins explores the Antarctic Ocean. In photographs taken around the world, National Geographic Your Shot contributors captured more than 30 species of birds. Some are taking a dip in the water. Others are flying high through the sky or going on a search for their next meals.

Check out some of National Geographic editors' favorite pictures of beautiful birds—taken in Mexico, Australia, Israel and beyond—and be sure to submit your best shots in the 2017 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest, which ends June 30.

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