Environmental Category

1st: James Appleton - The Necropsy

© James Appleton - The Necropsy

James said: "This image was taken in March of 2025 on Raasay, just off the Isle of Skye. After being spotted swimming freely numerous times in the area, an adult sperm whale sadly stranded itself in severe distress – having become entangled in fishing gear – and died shortly after. I travelled down the next day to document the resulting necropsy – a hugely important piece of scientific work that is able to identify not only the causes of death but also, more significantly, the welfare implications – the extent of suffering and speed at which the whale's condition deteriorated. The process of taking samples from such a huge animal is exceptional – both hugely physically and emotionally draining for the team of professionals from SMASS – the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme. Their vital work is helping guide changes that will help prevent circumstances like this from happening again. With my photographs of the event, I wanted to capture not only the tragedy of the loss of life of such an incredible animal but also the emotional impact that this has on those working to address this problem and, in doing so, draw focus onto the vital work being done by the team at SMASS. I am delighted that, in winning this category, this particular photograph can do just that."

2nd: Don Nealon - Wind Peak

© Don Nealon - Wind Peak

3rd: James Appleton - Stac Pollaidh Burns

© James Appleton - Stac Pollaidh Burns

Shortlisted:

Kirsty Andrews
James Appleton
Neil Atkinson
Stephanie Chadwick
Andy Colls
Tom Gilland
Nikola Ignaczak
Alan Johnstone
Caroline Lawrie
Neil MacGregor
Liam McBride
Graham Niven
Angie Reynolds
Charly Schleder
Alex Williamson
Jayne Winter



Environmental category
Natural Abstract category
Scottish Botanical category
Scottish Landscape - The Land category
Scottish Landscape - Sea & Coast category
Scottish Landscape - Urban Greenspace category
Scottish Wildlife Behaviour category
Scottish Wildlife Portrait category
Junior category
Student category
Scottish Nature Video Award 2025