The wildlife photographer of the year competition 2013 opens on the 7th of January 2013. There are 18 categories, three of which are for those aged 17 or under. The closing date is 25 February 2013.

For more details, and to enter, visit Wild Life Photographer of the Year 2013.

The competition is now in it’s 49th year, and is a truly amazing contest that photographers across the world aspire to enter and win. Last year, a record 48,000 entries was received, from photographers across 98 countries.

Adults are permitted to enter 20 images for £20.00, and 17’s or under can enter up to 10 free.

Creativity and realism is encouraged, and light edits are permitted in moderation, however, cutting and pasting and cloning is not allowed.

from 7th of January 2013 to 25th of February 2013, both amateur and professional photographers will be able to submit wildlife photos to the competition.