Iberian Lynx Photo Wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Summary

Josef Stefan has won the Wildlife Photographer of the Year People's Choice Award 2026 with his photograph, "Flying Rodent," which depicts a young Iberian lynx. The image, captured using a Nikon Z9 and a 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens, received over 85,000 votes, outshining 23 other finalists. Stefan spent two weeks observing the rare lynx in Spain, aiming to capture a moment that symbolizes the species' recovery from near extinction. The award-winning photo underscores the success of conservation efforts for the Iberian lynx, now numbering over 2,000.

Key points

• Josef Stefan's photo of an Iberian lynx won the Wildlife Photographer of the Year People's Choice Award 2026.
• The winning image was captured with a Nikon Z9 and a 600mm f/4 TC VR S super telephoto lens.
• The photograph highlights the recovery of the Iberian lynx population, now exceeding 2,000 individuals.
• The award received a record-breaking 85,917 votes from the public.