Judges impressed with falcon images
23 March 2014
Judges from Wingspan and Rotorua Museum were amazed by the quality of images taken of the three kārearea (New Zealand falcons) as part of the Capture the Raptor photo competition.
The competition received over 50 entries depicting Hatupatu, Tama and Te Rangi Rere I Waho (Maureen) following the successful first ever urban release of a threatened species at Rotorua Museum.
The entries received for the photo competition highlight the importance of preserving and caring for this threatened New Zealand bird.
Kārearea is the fastest flying New Zealand bird so we know great pictures are hard to get. However the entries capture these dynamic birds, their cheeky antics and beauty for all to se," said Wingspan National Birds of Prey Centre director Debbie Stewart.
The competition began after thousands of photos were taken of the three young kārearea over the summer as part of the On the Wing project. Both professional and amateur photographers spent hours waiting to get the shot they wanted of these playful young kārearea.
Four finalists in each of the three categories have now been chosen by a panel of local judges.
Rotorua Museum Deputy Director, Pamela Lovis, said judges were impressed with the range of entries and technical excellence shown.
"There was some heated discussion between the judges to decide the final four in each category, she said.
People will be able to vote for their favourite image in each category online through the Rotorua Museum and Wingspan Facebook pages. There is also an album of finalists at both operations for those without Facebook access.
Winning images will be on display at Rotorua Museum the announcement of the winners on Wednesday 16 April.
The three falcons are all still entertaining visitors around the Museum and Government Gardens area, but are taking trips further afield as their confidence grows. Rotorua Museum also has a special display, called On the Wing, about kārearea, the urban release project, and Wingspan's work.