These sublime images of the natural world at its very best are battling it out for the title of National Geographic's 2017 Nature Photographer of the Year.

The prestigious contest is still accepting entries in four categories: Wildlife, Landscapes, Underwater and Aerials - and if these shots are anything to go by, crowning the winner will be no easy task.

Here, Telegraph Travel presents a selection of the standout submissions so far.

This picture above, taken by Phillip Chang, was captured from a helicopter over Lake Natron in Tanzania as a flock of flamingos took flight.

Judges will continue to accept entries until November 17, and the grand-prize winner will be awarded a $10,000 (£7,500) cash prize.

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