It’s not everyday that you witness two northern gannets fighting in Scotland or watch as a platoon of king penguins explores the Antarctic Ocean. In photographs taken around the world, National Geographic Your Shot contributors captured more than 30 species of birds. Some are taking a dip in the water. Others are flying high through the sky or going on a search for their next meals.

Check out some of National Geographic editors' favorite pictures of beautiful birds—taken in Mexico, Australia, Israel and beyond—and be sure to submit your best shots in the 2017 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest, which ends June 30.