Young Iberian Lynx Wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year People's Choice Award

Austrian photographer Josef Stefan's captivating photograph titled "Flying Rodent" has won the 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award. The image features a young Iberian lynx playfully tossing a rodent into the air before consuming it. This striking moment was captured during a two-week observation period at Torre de Juan Abad in Ciudad Real, Spain, where Stefan spent time in a hide to photograph the elusive species. The photograph garnered a record-breaking 85,917 votes from the public, surpassing 24 other shortlisted images selected from over 60,000 entries.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year crowns People's Choice winners

The Iberian lynx, characterized by its tufted ears and spotted red-brown fur, was once on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining in the early 2000s. Intensive conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and a successful breeding program, have led to a remarkable recovery, with the population now exceeding 2,000 individuals. This resurgence has transformed the Iberian lynx into a symbol of hope for wildlife conservation, demonstrating the positive impact of dedicated efforts to protect endangered species.

Lynx and rodent photo wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year public vote

Stefan described the experience of capturing the lynx as a realization of a long-held dream. He noted, “The journey to take this image was more than just another photographic adventure; it was the pursuit of a dream that had been with me for years.” He emphasized the importance of the lynx as a living symbol of hope, stating, “Winning this award and being able to platform this message is the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer.”

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Nuveen People’s Choice Award Winner crowned for Iberian lynx image

While the award highlights the success of conservation efforts, some critics point out that the Iberian lynx remains classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Ongoing threats, including habitat loss and human encroachment, continue to pose risks to the species' long-term survival.

Lynx and rodent photo wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year public vote

Dr. Natalie Cooper, a researcher at the Natural History Museum, remarked on the lynx's recovery, stating, “This is a remarkable achievement that required collaboration among scientists, government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.” The Natural History Museum, which organizes the competition, aims to raise awareness about wildlife conservation through initiatives like the Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

One of only 2,000 Iberian lynx captured in stunning photo gains top prize and international attention – "It's the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer," says winner

The winning photograph, along with four highly commended images, will be displayed at the Natural History Museum in London until July 12, 2026. The exhibition aims to inspire visitors to appreciate the beauty of wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts.

One of only 2,000 Iberian lynx captured in stunning photo gains top prize and international attention – "It's the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer," says winner

• “The Iberian lynx is a living symbol of hope, showing what can happen when we take responsibility, act consciously and focus our attention where it's most needed.” — Josef Stefan, Photographer

One of only 2,000 Iberian lynx captured in stunning photo gains top prize and international attention – "It's the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer," says winner

• “This is a remarkable achievement that required collaboration among scientists, government agencies, NGOs and local communities,” — Dr. Natalie Cooper, Natural History Museum

Lynx and rodent photo wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year public vote

The success of "Flying Rodent" not only celebrates the artistry of wildlife photography but also underscores the critical importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect endangered species like the Iberian lynx.

Photo of Iberian lynx wins Wildlife Photograph of the Year