Their jaws dropped in awe.
A breathtaking image of a lynx engaging with its catch has triumphed over 60,636 other entries to secure the acclaimed Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award.
The award-winning photograph, titled “Flying Rodent,” depicts an Iberian lynx poised with an outstretched paw, poised to strike a rodent before consuming it. This masterpiece was captured by Austrian photographer Josef Stefan.
Stefan’s mesmerizing shot, selected by a global audience of 85,000 voters, was the result of three days spent concealed in camouflage in Torre de Juan Abad, located in central Spain.
While on his watch, Stefan noted that the elusive Iberian lynx—known for its distinctive black-tufted ears and spotted red-brown coat—made only fleeting appearances, as he shared with CNN.
Yet, on the second day, the scene dramatically unfolded as the lynx “suddenly appeared with a freshly caught rat in his mouth, lay down near me, and stayed there attentively for a while,” Stefan recounted.
“He repeatedly tossed the rat into the air, skillfully caught it, and occupied himself with it for about 15 to 20 minutes. Finally, he lost interest, grabbed the rat, and disappeared behind a bush, where he ate it.”
About 20 minutes later, the animal returned.
“Calmly, almost proudly, he walked past my hide and finally disappeared into the adjacent bushland,” Stefan added.
What makes the image even more special is the fact that the species of lynx — only found on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe — was considered one of the world’s most endangered mammals in the early 2000s.
However, through conservation efforts, including a breeding program, its population increased by 1,500% in 20 years.
“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,” Stefan told London’s Natural History Museum, which organizes the annual competition.
“Winning this award and being able to platform this message is the highlight of my 30 years as a nature photographer.”
