The Audubon Society has released the winners of its 2016 photo competition, recognizing the best in bird photography.
These nine finalists below were chosen from more than 7,000 entries showcasing birds of all feathers in their natural habitat; from majestic bald eagles to tiny piping plovers.
The Audubon Society, one of the world oldest conservation organizations in the world, is also eager to remind aspiring nature photographers to follow ethical practices when out in the field, such as keeping one's distance by using a telephoto lens and avoiding using flash, especially in the case of nocturnal species.
Check out the winners below: