In a remarkable celebration of wildlife photography, Josef Stefan has been awarded the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Nuveen People’s Choice Award 2026 for his stunning photograph titled “Flying Rodent.” The announcement was made on March 25, 2026, at the Natural History Museum in London, where the exhibition showcasing this year’s entries is currently being held.
This year, the award garnered an unprecedented 85,917 votes, reflecting the growing public interest in wildlife conservation and photography. Stefan’s winning image captures a young Iberian lynx playfully tossing a rodent into the air, a moment he witnessed in Ciudad Real, Spain. The photograph not only highlights the beauty of the species but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing conservation efforts that have helped the Iberian lynx population rebound to over 2,000 individuals.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition has a rich history, celebrating its 61st year in 2026. This year, the competition attracted a record 60,636 entries from 113 countries and territories, showcasing the global commitment to wildlife preservation through art. The exhibition featuring the shortlisted photographs will remain open to the public until 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 was among many that captivated the audience, with four other images receiving highly commended recognition from the judges, including works by Alexandre Brisson, Christopher Paetkau, Will Nicholls, and Kohei Nagira.
Dr. Douglas Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum, remarked on the overwhelming response to the voting process, 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 enthusiasm underscores the importance of wildlife photography in raising awareness about conservation issues.
The Iberian lynx, once on the brink of extinction in the early 2000s, has seen a remarkable recovery due to dedicated conservation efforts. The species’ resurgence serves as a beacon of hope for wildlife preservation, illustrating the positive impact of collective action and awareness.
As the exhibition continues to draw visitors, it not only celebrates the artistry of wildlife photography but also emphasizes the critical need for ongoing conservation initiatives. The public’s engagement through voting highlights a shared commitment to protecting our planet’s biodiversity.