The natural world has provided a comforting escape from reality for many over the past year. And happily both amateur and seasoned professional photographers have been on hand to capture some of those magic moments for us. These images are all from the CEWE Photo Awards which draws entries from around the world. From a camouflaged crocodile to a hilarious horse, we hope these heartwarming shots will lift your spirits this winter as much as they have ours. 

Taken in the icy expanse of Antarctica, this adorable photograph captures a penguin taking care of its chick.

Talina Lux has captured a puppy’s first experience of snow in this sweet photo. The little furball looks thoroughly unimpressed.

This gorgeous image shows a cat gazing longingly into the distance. The cat’s mesmerizing green eyes with the soft light in the background makes this a truly beautiful shot.

The two butterflies pictured here seem to be enjoying the nectar of a pretty pink flower together. The photo’s near symmetry makes it extra striking.

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The trio of meerkats shown in this image look like they’re on high alert as they keep lookout.

In this image taken by Doris Dörfler-Asmus, a hungry Brown bear in Alaska tries to catch some fish over a waterfall. For more incredible creatures caught on camera, check out these beautiful images of the world’s bears. 

Taken by Christian Mars, this adorable scene shows a pair of owls sharing what looks like a tender moment together.

A snake slowly emerges from water in this incredible close-up. The light glinting in the water makes this a truly magical shot.

Two dogs huddle together under a scarf in the chilly autumnal forest scene.

The pigeon pictured here looks pretty toasty, its feathers all ruffled up ready for the cold.

This black and white image captures two zebras showing off their beautiful patterned coats.

You could easily mistake the raindrops gathered on this spider’s web for a pretty string of pearls. Michael Konrad captured this mesmerizing close-up.

Taken by Thomas Hinsche, this perfectly timed image shows a kingfisher as it enjoys its meal.

This hilarious photograph by Jane Wintersohl shows a horse enjoying its close up with the camera.

Captured in America’s Floridian Everglades, this crocodile looks well camouflaged as it swims in the wetlands’ swampy waters.

A red squirrel reaches out after dropping its acorn from a tree branch in this classic ‘oops’ moment. Now check out these breathtaking images from Travel Photographer of the Year 2020.