Looking for wildlife “everywhere” has led to a photo of a peregrine falcon perched perilously on a balcony – which in turn has won an award for a St Albans photographer.

Herts Advertiser: Young Environmental Photographer of the Year went to Luke Massey for his photo of a peregrine on a condo balcony in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Eroll JonesYoung Environmental Photographer of the Year went to Luke Massey for his photo of a peregrine on a condo balcony in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Eroll Jones (Image: Eroll Jones)

Luke Massey, who has a passion to show people what is on their doorstep, or in this case a peregrine on a condominium balcony in Chicago, collected a gong at the recent Atkins CIWEM Environmental Photographer of the Year ceremony.

The world’s greatest living explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, announced Luke’s win for his bold photo, named ‘Poser’, at a ceremony at the Royal Geographical Society last Tuesday, June 28.

The 24 year old was named Young Environmental Photographer of the year (under 25) at the event, which was open to all professional and amateur photographers across the globe, showcasing the best in environmental photography and film.

Luke said that peregrines began to be reintroduced into the state of Illinois in the 1980s and now 22 pairs nest in Chicago alone.

Herts Advertiser: Young Environmental Photographer of the Year went to Luke Massey for his photo of a peregrine on a condo balcony in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Eroll JonesYoung Environmental Photographer of the Year went to Luke Massey for his photo of a peregrine on a condo balcony in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Eroll Jones (Image: Eroll Jones)

He dedicates his photographic skills to drawing attention to the plight of wildlife under threat, and one of his aims is to try and help save as many species as possible through his work.

Last year Luke spent several months documenting the critically endangered Iberian lynx in Spain, and two years ago he joined television presenter Chris Packham in Malta to help campaign against the annual “massacre” of migratory birds.

• The photography competition was launched in 2007, with Luke’s winning entry being displayed along with fellow award winners’ photos, and 60 shortlisted images at the Royal Geographical Society in London until August 19. Luke is selling 15 limited edition prints of his winning image.