Conrad's Hen Harrier Story secured the Conservation Award in the 2026 Bird Photography the Year competition, which attracted more than 24,000 entries from photographers around the world.

The story features a series of six photographs of hen harriers, taken in England accompanied by documentary-style storytelling that highlights their status as one of the UK's most persecuted birds of prey and the conservation work being carried out to protect them.

Over the past two decades, Conrad, who was born and bred in Northumberland, has documented his surroundings during numerous polar expeditions through photography.

However, over the last ten years he has developed a particular passion for wildlife photography. His growing reputation in the field has seen him receive commended and highly commended accolades in the prestigious International Bird Photographer of the Year competition on multiple occasions, with his images also appearing in the annual publication.

In 2021, he secured first prize in the Share the View International Photography Competition with Diving Gannet, a photograph taken in Shetland during the summer of 2019.

Now retired from polar exploration, Conrad has turned his attention to supporting Northumberland Wildlife Trust's campaign to raise £30 million to secure the purchase of the Rothbury Estate. Earlier this year, he also narrated a film showcasing the beauty and importance of the area.

Speaking about his award, Conrad said:

"I'm delighted to have won the award, although first and foremost my photographs are all about promoting nature conservation and encouraging people to take action, rather than winning prize money and trophies.

"When it comes to taking photographs, it's all about knowing your camera settings thoroughly so that you can react quickly when an exciting situation unfolds in front of you.

"There are always great second-hand deals available on cameras, and most smartphones now have excellent cameras built into them. So turn off the TV, head to your local green space and see what you can photograph. And remember, be patient. The wildlife will appear if you take the time to sit and wait."