RSPB launch ‘Nature’s Hotspots’ Photography Competition

Northern Ireland is full to the brim with wonderful wildlife and natural places. It is all around us! We have fantastic creatures, habitats and landscapes, many of which are literally on our own doorsteps. That is why we have decided to launch a photography competition called ‘Nature’s Hotspots’. It will run from the Summer through to the beginning of November ’09 and culminate with a Photo Exhibition at Parliament Buildings, Stormont on 23 November.

RSPB’s ‘Nature’s Hotspots’ Photography Competition encourages the public to take a photo on their local Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), access permitting, and submit the image to the RSPB. We are also encouraging people to submit some text with the image, to describe what the photo means to them (text is optional). For full details on how to enter the competition, terms and conditions and a link to a map of Northern Ireland’s ASSIs, please go to www.rspb.org.uk/northernireland  

Categories include Best Bird Photo, Best Wildlife Photo (excluding birds), Best Landscape/Habitat photo, Under 16s category – any image taken on an ASSI. Our panel of judges will also choose an overall winner. Prizes include gift vouchers, a fabulous Fuji Film camera and a chance to win a day trip to see the recently released Red Kites in South Co Down.

The competition signals a re-launch of the RSPB’s ‘Safe and Sound’ campaign, to ensure that Northern Ireland’s most special natural places - Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs) are protected and maintained.

For further information please contact Colum Delaney at 02890 690853, colum.delaney@rspb.org.uk or Rosanna Ballentine at 02890 491547, rosanna.ballentine@rspb.org.uk