Italian photographer Federico Veronesi’s captivating image of a grieving elephant mother cradling her deceased calf has secured the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year award for this year. Veronesi, while observing elephants in Namibia’s Huab River Valley, stumbled upon a heart-wrenching scene where an adult female elephant was seen carrying a calf’s leg between her tusk and trunk.
Kathy Moran, head of the 2026 jury, praised the photo for its emotional depth and intellectual significance, stating that it evoked a strong emotional response while also showcasing animal cognition. The winning image, titled “The Aftermath,” not only claimed the grand prize but also triumphed in the Behaviour: Mammals category.
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, hosted by the Natural History Museum in London, aims to shed light on nature’s narratives and raise awareness about pressing environmental issues. This year, the 62nd edition attracted entries from 121 countries and territories, totaling 65,403 submissions.
In addition to the main award, the competition also recognizes outstanding young photographers. Oscar Whitfield, a British photographer with roots in Zimbabwe, clinched the Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year title for his striking shot of a dung beetle in action.
While no Canadian photographers secured top honors this year, Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas, a Canadian citizen residing in Germany, was granted the Rising Star Award. His featured photograph titled “Afternoon Snack” depicts a robber fly preying on another fly, showcasing a fascinating natural phenomenon.
The exhibition, featuring a diverse range of captivating images, will be on display at various museums, including the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto and the Royal B.C. Museum in Victoria. The showcase will commence at the Natural History Museum in London in the coming days, offering audiences an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world through the lens of talented photographers worldwide.