Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 Shortlist Revealed

The shortlist for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 has been revealed, featuring highly commended entries including a polar bear photograph by Audun Rikardsen. The prestigious nature photography award recognises standout images of nature in action.

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BBCNew Scientist

A nosy polar bear and a lucky squirrel: Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 shortlist

In brief

What the sources add

The polar bear image taken by Audun Rikardsen was among the 'highly commended' entries in this year's competition.

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Media reports

BBC 3h ago

A nosy polar bear and a lucky squirrel: Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 shortlist

The polar bear image taken by Audun Rikardsen was among the 'highly commended' entries in this year's competition.

New Scientist 3h ago

See the stunning contenders for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year

These images of nature in action are just some of the highly commended shots in the running for the prestigious nature photography award

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