Guardian readers have once again showcased their exceptional talent for capturing the world's beauty through photography. This latest collection spans from festive lantern displays in Leicestershire to a sun-seeking parakeet in London, offering a diverse glimpse into moments of wonder across the globe.
Festive Illuminations and Winter Wonders
In Leicestershire, the Lanterns of the Wild display at Twycross Zoo provided a magical Christmas experience, with giant succulents and other luminous creations brightening up a cold, rainy evening. Meanwhile, in Vienna, Austria, the gardens of Belvedere Palace were transformed by a blanket of snow, creating a serene winter scene.
Wildlife Encounters Across the UK
From Bristol to Edinburgh, readers captured stunning wildlife moments. A stag was spotted during a freezing sunrise walk in Bristol, while ducks were surprised by otters on a frozen pond in Figgate Park, Edinburgh. In London, a ring-necked parakeet basked in the sun on a sub-zero January morning in Regent's Park, defying the chilly weather.
Dramatic Landscapes and Stormy Scenes
The collection also highlights dramatic natural landscapes. In Patagonia, South America, an Andean condor soared against the backdrop of the Perito Moreno glacier's ice wall. Closer to home, Storm Goretti's impact on Seaford, East Sussex, was documented, showing a beach barely recognisable after chunks were swept away and debris washed up.
Seasonal Beauty from Europe to Beyond
Readers shared seasonal snapshots from across Europe. In Saint-Malo, France, a contemplative runner at dawn captured the essence of northern European seasons. In Lustrafjord, Norway, autumn light created dramatic pictures of the fjords. Italy contributed a portrait of two dragonflies in Torrile, highlighting their role as indicators of wetland ecosystem health.
Action and Adventure in the UK
Action shots included a glider flying over Birling Gap, Eastbourne, against a backdrop of blue sky and white cliffs, and a rider braving harsh conditions during a recce for the 2026 national cyclo-cross championships in South Shields. These images encapsulate the spirit of adventure and resilience in the face of challenging weather.
This gallery not only celebrates photographic skill but also the diverse beauty of our world, from urban settings to remote wilderness. Readers are encouraged to submit their own pictures for potential publication in future online galleries or the Guardian letters page.
