Deadline extended for Wildlife, Wild Places photography contest

The deadline for the Wildlife and Wild Places photography contest, sponsored by Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, has been extended.

Contest officials are seeking nature photos of Southern Illinois. Photos should be submitted at the Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center by Sunday, Oct. 6. This is a new date since the Visitors Center will be closed on Sept. 28 and 29. The Visitors Center is located on Illinois 148, south of Illinois 13 and is open 8 to 4:30 daily.

All photos must be taken south of I-64 and be in one of these categories: Landscape /Scenic; Wildlife; Flowers/Plants/Trees/Fungi; Pollinators/Insects/Spiders; Youth (17 and under); or photos taken on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Cash and gift certificates are given for Best of Show and first, second, and third for each category.

Each photographer may submit up to five entries. There is a $5 charge for each entry for adults. Youth (up to age 17) may submit up to five photos for $1 each. Contest rules and entry forms are available at the Visitor's Center and at the Friends of Crab Orchard website, www.friendsofconwr.com.

For questions, call 618-998-5933. The Friends of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is sponsoring the photography contest.