Columbus, OH -(Ammoland.com)- The photograph of an eastern bluebird perched on a redbud tree was selected as the winning image of the 2015 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp contest, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Photographer James Mundy, of Cincinnati, captured the bluebird photo at Winton Woods near his Hamilton County home. Second and third place were awarded to David Shaw, of New Vienna, and Don Lozier, of West Jefferson, respectively.
For the sixth annual competition, the ODNR Division of Wildlife received 180 entries of bluebirds from 79 photographers, which is an increase from the 143 entries received last year.
The eastern bluebird is one of Ohio’s flashiest native species and a modern-day conservation success story. Thanks to the hard work of hundreds of bluebirders who build and maintain nest boxes, the state’s bluebird population is at an all-time high.
The contest was judged this year at Burr Oak State Park during the Wildlife Diversity Partners Conference, Aug. 27-28. The judges of the photo contest were representatives from statewide conservation organizations, metroparks, science and education centers, as well as wildlife biologists, naturalists and outdoor writers. Photos were judged on originality, technical excellence, composition and overall impact. The Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp contest is only open to Ohio residents.
Fourteen dollars of every $15 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp sold are invested in the state’s Wildlife Diversity Fund. This fund supports habitat restoration, wildlife and habitat research projects, creation of wildlife educational materials, and efforts that restore and conserve endangered and threatened species. No state tax dollars are contributed to this fund.
Participants of the first Wildlife Diversity Partners Conference in 2008 collaborated with the ODNR Division of Wildlife to create the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp. Offering the stamp to the public has continued with the positive support of individuals and wildlife conservation groups throughout the state. The inaugural stamp featuring a Baltimore oriole was introduced in 2010. The Eastern amberwing (2011), spotted salamander (2012), black-capped chickadee (2013) and midland painted turtle (2014) were featured in subsequent years.
More information about the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and other wildlife-related topics can be found at WildOhio.
About The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.