It can be hard enough to catch a far-off glimpse of some wildlife species, let alone snap a perfectly composed close-up shot with a camera. The following are some of the very best wildlife close-ups submitted to Downhome – and they prove it pays to carry a camera at all times. But remember, when photographing wildlife use your camera's zoom lens – and keep a safe distance.

Regal Eagle



Eric Pike of Corner Brook photographed this bald eagle in Salmonier, Newfoundland.

Picture Purrfect



Melanie Whalen got this rare close-up shot of a lynx at Salmonier Nature Park.

On The Hop



Megan Webb photographed this hare outside her home in Pynn's Brook, Newfoundland in early spring.

BBQ Guest



J. Coles of Northern Ontario writes, "This bear came to see what was cooking on the BBQ, or maybe it was the Newfoundland cover he liked."

Bringing Home the Capelin



Paul Regular of Bay Bulls snapped a photo of this Atlantic puffin heading for its nest on Gull Island with supper.

Sweet Dreams



Wanda White captured this image of a sleepy seal in Bay Bulls, Newfoundland.

Curious Caribou



Melanie Whalen piqued this caribou's interest while snapping its photo on the Avalon Peninsula.

Ready, Aim, Shoot!



Tracy Parsons had a successful day of "hunting" moose with her camera on the Burgeo Highway.

The Stare-Down



While enjoying a sunny day in Twillingate, this young great horned owl kept its eye on photographer Bill Perks.