The Results Are In!

Photo above by Ken Pickle

2021 Birdathon Photography Contest

Photographers from across the state submitted their best bird photos from this past year, and the results were breathtaking! With record participation this year, the judges had an incredibly difficult task on their hands. Photographs were judged on the categories of technical quality, originality, and artistic merit. Our judges panel this year included a Board member from Pilchuck Audubon, a representative from the Snohomish County Arts Commission, and an Olympus Educator.

The diversity of species photographed this year showcases just how fortunate we are in Washington to live in a place with so many amazing birds. Species represented in the contest this year ranged from American White Pelican and Common Yellowthroat, to Snow Bunting, Varied Thrush, and Pigeon Guillemot!

Congratulations to our 2021 Birdathon Photography Contest winners!

To view the winners of each category and a slideshow of all the contest entries, please keep scrolling.


Big thanks again to our sponsor!


Youth Category

1st Place: “Red-breasted Sapsucker” by Arjun Subramanian

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2nd Place: “Sandpiper” by Tashi Schorr

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3rd Place: “Snow Geese Flying Down” by Elizabeth Albaugh

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Adult Category

1st Place: “Face Off Between Short-eared Owl and Northern Harrier” by Kathy McCulloch Wade

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2nd Place: “Harrier Hawk” by David Reddish

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3rd Place: “Great Gray Owl” by Kenneth Trease

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People’s Choice Award

1st Place: “Cheeky Portrait of a Black Oystercatcher” by Matt D’Alessio

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Watch the slideshow below to see all of this year’s contest entries.