In a thrilling announcement at the Natural History Museum in London, Josef Stefan has been awarded the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Nuveen People’s Choice Award 2026 for his captivating photograph titled ‘Flying Rodent’. This remarkable image, which showcases a young Iberian lynx playfully tossing a rodent into the air, garnered an astonishing 85,917 votes from the public.
The competition this year was fierce, with shortlisted photographs selected from a staggering 60,636 entries submitted by talented photographers from 113 countries and territories. The exhibition, which features these stunning works, will remain open to the public until Sunday, July 12, 2026.
Stefan expressed his gratitude, stating, “Winning this award and being able to platform this message is the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer.” His photograph not only captures a moment of playful beauty but also highlights the remarkable recovery of the Iberian lynx population, which has rebounded to over 2,000 individuals thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.
Dr. Douglas Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum, shared his excitement about the public engagement, saying, “It’s been wonderful to see all the votes coming in to choose the photograph set for display in our flagship exhibition here at the Natural History Museum.” This year marks the 61st iteration of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, a testament to its enduring popularity and significance in the field of wildlife conservation.
Among the other noteworthy entries, four highly commended images were recognized, featuring works by Alexandre Brisson, Christopher Paetkau, Will Nicholls, and Kohei Nagira. Each of these photographers contributed unique perspectives that further enrich the exhibition.
The Iberian lynx, once on the brink of extinction in the early 2000s, serves as a symbol of hope and resilience in wildlife conservation. The ongoing efforts to protect this species have not only increased its numbers but have also raised awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
As the exhibition continues, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the beauty of nature through the lens of these talented photographers, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the need for conservation.
