A WORLD-RENOWNED art exhibition hits Southampton this month.

The exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, will open at SeaCity Museum on June 30.

It will feature 100 nature images, from animal behaviour to wild landscapes.

The gallery, Wildlife Photographer of the Year, is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging sights for more then 50 years.

Launching in 1965 when it attracted 361 entries, today the competition receives almost 50,000 entries from 96 countries, highlighting its enduring appeal.

This year’s 100 award-winning images will embark on an international tour that allows them to be seen by millions of people across six continents.

Jan English, head of touring exhibitions at the Natural History Museum, said: “Wildlife Photographer of the Year celebrates the very best nature photography, and it is consistently one of our most successful touring exhibitions, enjoyed by millions every year.

“These images tell thought-provoking stories about our planet that prompt us all to think differently about the natural world and the future we want to create.”

Councillor Satvir Kaur, cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure at Southampton City Council, said: “I’m ecstatic to see Wildlife Photographer of the Year coming to SeaCity this summer.

“It’s one of the world’s best-known photography competitions, with stunning imagery that will delight both residents and visitors to the city alike. It’ll also be ideal for entertaining the kids during the long summer break.Bringing this exhibition to the south coast is another example of our commitment to invest in arts and culture across Southampton, which will bring tourists, jobs and investment to our city.”

l Are you a keen photographer? Join the Daily Echo Camera Club and share your images. Go to facebook.com/groups/decameraclub