A SPECTACULAR celebration of wildlife photography is on show in Paignton Zoo.

A selection of pictures from the 2008 Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition will be on free display in the zoo foyer until the New Year.

This is the largest and most prestigious wildlife photography competition in the world and is run by the Natural History Museum and BBC Wildlife Magazine.

It features top wildlife photography from around the world. The competition started in 1964 and in 2008 attracted a record field of 32,351 entries from 82 countries.

A zoo spokesman said: "The exhibition is a must-see for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

"It's a great opportunity to inspire and educate. It brings visitors face-to-face with the wild world in all its moods.

"There is beauty, tranquility, ferocity and tenderness."

The 17 categories highlight endangered species, animal behaviour, plants and photographic composition. There are separate competitions for children and young adults.

The aim of the competition is to raise the status of wildlife photography and encourage young people to pick up cameras.

The zoo is open daily 10am to 4.30pm.