British Wildlife Photography Awards 2012 - winners' gallery

The British Wildlife Photography Awards were established by Maggie Gowan to recognise the talents of wildlife photographers working in Britain, while at the same time highlighting the great wealth and diversity of Britain’s natural history.

Now in its fourth year, the initial motivation to set up the awards evolved through the nation’s growing awareness of the environment and the need for its protection.

The winning images will be published in the book, British Wildlife Photography Awards: Collection 3 and will be exhibited at the Mall Galleries in London from 17 September, before departing on a nationwide tour.