Prepare to be captivated! The shortlist for the 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award features some truly breathtaking images. Among these stunning captures are a vibrant group of flamingos set against the stark lines of power cables, a clever crab taking a lift on a jellyfish, and a young sloth nestled safely in its mother’s arms. These snapshots highlight the beauty and complexity of wildlife, showcasing the essence of nature in compelling ways.
The Natural History Museum in London has collaborated with an esteemed panel of judges from various fields, including photography, wildlife conservation, and scientific research, to sift through an astonishing 60,636 submissions from 113 countries. Out of this vast collection, 24 finalist images have been chosen for public consideration.
The ultimate winner of this prestigious award will be determined by public voting, as announced in a statement from the museum. This year’s selection is particularly remarkable, according to Douglas Gurr, the director of the Natural History Museum, who emphasized that the images not only display fascinating animal behaviors but also convey significant narratives about our planet's challenges.
In addition to playful possums and fledgling kestrels preparing to take their first flights, the exhibition includes thought-provoking images that address critical issues regarding human impacts on the environment. For instance, one photographer ventured into Uganda and captured a powerful image of a mountain of snares, which were confiscated by rangers and used to trap wildlife. Another poignant photograph depicts a pangolin, orphaned due to poaching, being comforted with a soft blanket at a rescue facility in South Africa.
The voting process is now open, allowing both online participants and visitors at the Natural History Museum to cast their votes. The winners, including the top awardee and four runners-up, will be revealed on March 25.
This initiative ties into CNN's editorial series, Call to Earth, which is dedicated to highlighting the environmental challenges our world faces, while also exploring potential solutions. In partnership with Rolex's Perpetual Planet Initiative, this series aims to raise awareness and promote education on pressing sustainability issues, inspiring individuals to take action.
