The little penguin may not have chosen to end up like this, but it got to experience something very few of its species ever taste: flight.

Unfortunately for the little one, its first flight took place upside-down and in the talons of a sea eagle. And while we don't know how this story ends, it's likely the poor penguin's first flight was its last.

Penguin takes flight: John Prats thought the sea eagle had caught a salmon until he had a closer look. He agreed to his photograph being published to boost his message about getting outdoors. Credit:John Prats

This incredible photo was shot by photographer and bushwalker John Prats near Wattamolla in the Royal National Park, south of Sydney.

Mr Prats, 70, was happy for his picture, taken two years ago, to be published again - as long as he could urge people to get outdoors and among the natural world.