Name: Patricia Homonylo
Picture title: When Worlds Collide
Category: Humans and Nature
Nationality: Canada
Occupation: Part-time photographer, part-time Script Supervisor (Film Industry)
Technical information
Camera: Alpha Sony 7R IV
Lens: Sony FE 16-35mm, F2.8GM (@16mm)
EXIF:1/160 – F4 – ISO 500
Accessories: Manfrotto monopod 486RC2
HIGHLY COMMENDED CATEGORY HUMANS AND NATURE
Patricia Homonylo | When Worlds Collide
Name: Patricia Homonylo
Picture title: When Worlds Collide
Category: Humans and Nature
Nationality: Canada
Occupation: Part-time photographer, part-time Script Supervisor (Film Industry)
Technical information
Camera: Alpha Sony 7R IV
Lens: Sony FE 16-35mm, F2.8GM (@16mm)
EXIF:1/160 – F4 – ISO 500
Accessories: Manfrotto monopod 486RC2
Patricia Homonylo says:
Each year, more than one billion birds die in North America due to window collisions.
For over 30 years, FLAP (Fatal Light Awareness Program) volunteers have patrolled the Greater Toronto Area, searching for birds that have collided with windows. While their efforts have saved a significant number of collision survivors, many birds do not survive the impact. However, the fallen are never left behind. Their bodies are collected, and their lives are honored in the annual ‘Bird Layout.’ This event brings volunteers together to arrange the birds’ bodies in an emotive and provocative display. When Worlds Collide documents the Layout honoring the approximately 4,000 birds recovered by FLAP in 2023. This annual event serves to educate the public while providing closure for the volunteers.
When Worlds Collide was driven by personal experience. As both the photographer and a FLAP volunteer, I joined the patrol five years ago and began documenting their work. To tell this story effectively, I needed to walk in their shoes and see what they see, though I was unprepared for the profound heartache that accompanied this work. When I found my first bird, a Ruby-throated Hummingbird weighing less than 4 grams, I was forever changed. The thought of this tiny bird traveling hundreds of kilometers only to have its life cut short in such a brutal way was unbearable. Patrolling never gets easier, and I will never look at buildings the same way again. I hope viewers are shocked by what they see and feel compelled to act.
Bird-window collisions are killing billions of migratory birds. This is a global issue, and it’s a problem we can fix. Turn out the lights and use bird-safe glass.
I took this photo from the top of a ladder, extending the camera on a monopod. I set the shutter to delay and sent the camera over the Layout.
Patricia Homonylo
Canada
Patricia is a wildlife photographer and filmmaker based in Toronto, Canada. She began her career as an exhibiting artist and holds a BA, BFA, and MFA. Nine years ago, during a chance visit to a wildlife rescue, Patricia felt a calling to advocate for wildlife conservation—a passion that was rekindled from her childhood.
While engaging with wildlife rescue, Patricia quickly learned that every animal in rescue is a product of human interference. As habitats continue to dwindle, non-human beings struggle to survive. Patricia’s work shines a light on those caught in the crosshairs. She is determined to speak for the most vulnerable non-human beings and give agency to the causes that drive her.
“As creators and photographers, we have a critical role to play. We are witnesses, horn blowers, advocates, fundraisers, and storytellers. By creating meaningful images, we move, educate, and inspire others into action. It is my joy and purpose to show people how powerful they really are.