In pictures: The jaw-dropping entries to the National Geographic Nature photographer of the year contest

From mountain goats to clouds of fire via an almost-too-close encounter with an American crocodile, the latest entries for the National Geographic Nature photographer of the year contest are in.

Every year, entries come in from all over the world to be judged under four different categories – Wildlife, Landscapes, Underwater and Aerials.

The grand-prize winner will receive $10,000, publication in National Geographic Magazine and a feature on National Geographic’s Instagram account, @natgeo.

‘Since National Geographic photographers find ways to go the extra mile in making a jaw-dropping photo, we’ve chosen four categories (Wildlife, Landscapes, Underwater and Aerials) that will encourage photographers to amaze us with a compelling diversity of images,’ said Matt Adams, Producer and Community Manager of Your Shot.

Entries are being accepted until 17 November 12pm EST, when a winner from each category will be chosen.

The grand prize winner will be chosen in December 2017.

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