The Big Cats

So - I am assuming that this was taken in captivity.... but lets overlook that for a moment because this shot is beautifully done, gorgeous reflection and actually quite subtle. Shame they aren't wild tigers but a nice photo nonetheless. Thanks for the entry

Well, I just HAVE to choose the Mara Six! I too have witnessed young cheetah cubs in the Mara (perhaps by the same famous mother) and they are so vulnerable yet so wild. Wonderful to see these cats in their wild habitat, thanks for sharing your photo.

I am a bit of a sucker for a lioness, or two... just love them. Their gentle loving nature, yet such a powerful and ruthless animal when they need to be. Shot in beautiful light, I am assuming in the wild, and natural golden tones. Nice, well done to you.

Thanks for this - action shot of a wonderful lion leaping - all fours off the ground. I wonder what he is chasing or what he is running from. Nice attention to detail, water specs and the mane movement is very nice. He's a young male I think - perhaps looking for a mate? First place for you for two reasons - taken in the wild and the animal is doing something, well done.

What is this beautiful cat doing in a zoo, I ask you (not you the contestant but just the world at large). He is gorgeous and I really like your photograph, strong natural tones and lovely clarity against the deep blue water. I wish he was wild and free .... but thanks for sharing.

Shere Khan? What a stunning tiger. Has to be India. Such sleek smooth texture of his/her beautiful coat, the colours the lines. The eyes are simply mesmerising - gaze into the cats eyes and feel its presence, oh yes. Gorgeous and unusual, Thanks for your entry

Yes, that look - uniquely Cougar isn't it?!! I agree they really are probably THE most alarming and terrifying of the big cats, but at the same time alluring. Often referred to as cougar, mountain lion or mountain cat - whichever you prefer - be on your guard! Stunningly done, thanks for the entry

A beautiful mother cheetah doing what she does best, protecting her cubs. Lovely photo, quite simple but has impact, and love the colours and contrast.

Did you know that cheetah cubs are born with binocular vision which correlates with their hunting since they do not rely as strongly on scent as other cats do.

A wonderful action shot of two stunning tigers, and all the better in water. Nicely framed shot capturing the action.

Did you know that tigers do not like to get water in their eyes, and will frequently enter backwards to ensure this doesn't happen. When they emerge they shake vigorously like a dog to remove water from their coats. Hope this amazing fact is interesting!

I like this laid back shot. Its a big male leopard seemingly not being bothered at all by these pesky flies ..... with his nonchalent expression but the flies somehow add to the scene don't they. Can't tell if taken in captivity or in the wild. But nice job