Maryland’s Natural Beauty Showcased in 2026 Calendar Contest

An image of a curious squirrel edging up behind an Eastern whip-poor-will — a species of nocturnal bird — took the grand prize in the Maryland Department of Natural Resources 2026 Photo Contest. The winners’ announcement dubbed the scene “a remarkable moment in nature.”

Kyle Smith captured the shot, titled “Right Behind You,” beating out over 1,000 other hopefuls for the top honor. “The squirrel kept inching closer, sniffing the whole time, until it was right next to the bird,” he wrote in his contest entry.

The photog received a $700 cash prize, a Maryland State Park and Trail Passport that provides holders unlimited day access to all of the state’s parks, and free entry into next year’s contest (typically $10). Additionally, he’ll take home five copies of the department’s 2027 calendar, which will be published later this fall with his winning image on the cover.

First through third place winners were selected in four categories — fall, winter, spring (in which Smith also took first), and summer — and all submitted photos aligned with the following subject matter subtopics: birds, insects, flora, landscapes, recreation, wildlife, and weather and wonder. The category winners will have their photos published in the pages of the calendar as well.

“From stunning wildlife to breathtaking natural landscapes, this year’s winning photos showcase the beauty of Maryland’s natural resources,” the department said in a Sept. 15 Facebook post.

A “Fan Favorite” image is yet to be determined — one of four shots will be chosen based on the number of likes each earns on the social media platform. The public can cast their votes through 5 p.m. ET on Sept. 30, and the most popular pic will also make the calendar.

Scroll down to see the category winners.