'Tis the season to be sorting through the most stunning images of the year. And as always, National Geographic's yearly contest offers some of the best that nature photography has to offer. Take a look at our favorites.

Top: Fight: Praying mantises in Kahramanmaras, Turkey. By Mehmet Karaca.

Last year's contest produced some incredible photos, and this year is no exception. There have been 1,000 entries so far — so we certainly don't envy the judges.


Orta Lake Storm Chasing, Riccardo Criseo



Ripples on Carezza Lake, Antonio Chiumenti



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