In a thrilling announcement from 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 depicts a young Iberian lynx playfully tossing a rodent into the air, garnered an astonishing 85,917 votes from the public, setting a new record for the award.
The photograph was selected from a staggering 60,636 entries submitted by photographers from 113 countries and territories, showcasing the global passion for wildlife photography. The Iberian lynx, once on the brink of extinction in the early 2000s, has seen its population recover to over 2,000 individuals thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.
Stefan’s image captures a moment of joy and vitality, with the lynx playing with its prey for a full 20 minutes in Ciudad Real, Spain. This playful interaction highlights not only the beauty of wildlife but also the importance of preserving such species for future generations.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition has been celebrating the art of wildlife photography for 61 years, and this year’s exhibition will remain open until Sunday, 12 July 2026, allowing visitors to experience the stunning shortlisted works firsthand.
In addition to Stefan’s winning photograph, four highly commended images were recognized, featuring the talents of Alexandre Brisson, Christopher Paetkau, Will Nicholls, and Kohei Nagira. Each of these photographers contributed unique perspectives on the natural world, enriching the exhibition’s narrative.
Josef 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 words resonate deeply, reflecting the passion and commitment many photographers share in advocating for wildlife conservation.
Dr. Douglas Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum, also shared his enthusiasm, 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 engagement from the public underscores the collective appreciation for wildlife and the stories these images tell.
The Iberian lynx’s recovery is a testament to the power of conservation efforts, and Stefan’s photograph serves as a reminder of the beauty that can emerge when we prioritize the protection of our planet’s wildlife.
As the exhibition continues to draw visitors, it stands as a celebration of nature and a call to action for conservation, inviting everyone to reflect on the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
Details remain unconfirmed.
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