Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Annual Pass Photo Contest Winner Announced

The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Annual Pass Photo Contest, held in collaboration with the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, invites amateur photographers to showcase the natural beauty, wildlife, and spirit of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge through their lenses. Twenty-five entries were submitted this year, each capturing a unique perspective of the beloved landscapes and inhabitants of the refuge. Chamber staff selected the top 5 entries based on adherence to contest guidelines and overall essence of the captured image and a panel of community leaders carefully reviewed the submissions before selecting the final winner.

The 2026 winning photograph, titled “Trying to Think”, was captured by Terry Willis of Chestertown, Maryland. The striking image features a tri-colored heron perched thoughtfully along the shoreline of the refuge, just north of the Assateague Bridge. What makes this photograph especially compelling is its origin—taken from a kayak, providing a perspective that reflects both patience and a deep connection to nature.

Terry, an avid kayaker and nature photographer, has been visiting Chincoteague and Assateague Islands for several years often seeking out secluded shorelines and tidal creeks where wild ponies graze and wading birds can be seen in quiet moments of reflection.

The winning photograph will appear on the 2026 Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Annual Pass, which provides visitors access to explore the refuge’s maritime forests, salt marshes, wildlife, and pristine beaches throughout the year. The pass is a coveted keepsake, often collected by both locals and visitors who treasure the refuge’s natural wonders.

The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge thank everyone who participated in this year’s contest. Every submission reflected the incredible beauty and biodiversity that makes the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge so special.

Visitors are encouraged to plan their own adventures to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, whether through birdwatching, hiking, biking, or kayaking. And don’t forget to bring a camera—you never know when the perfect moment will unfold before your eyes.

Learn more about the refuge and plan your visit at ChincoteagueChamber.com.