Stunning Potter Wasp Photo Captivates Wildlife Photography Judges

Tue Sep 16 2025 03:05:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Bidyut Kalita's remarkable capture of a potter wasp mid-flight carrying a caterpillar impresses the judges at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

Bidyut Kalita's mesmerizing photograph of a potter wasp 'riding a broomstick' while clutching a caterpillar beneath it has won accolades in this year's Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. The competition's winner will be announced on October 14, with an exhibition showcasing the top 100 photographs following shortly after. Kalita's image not only highlights the beauty of this industrious insect but also underscores the importance of wildlife photography in raising awareness about nature's wonders.

At first glance, the potter wasp appears to be riding a broomstick.

But this industrious insect isn't flying back to stir its witch's cauldron, or playing Quidditch. It's carrying a caterpillar – prey to feed its young.

It was captured by macro wildlife photographer Bidyut Kalita and was among the highly commended entries in this year's Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

The winning images will be announced on 14 October, followed by an exhibition at the Natural History Museum, showcasing 100 standout photographs from around the world.

Scroll down to explore other highly commended works from the competition.