In brief
Federico Veronesi has captured a striking moment in Namibia where an adult elephant lifts a dead calf with its trunk and tusk, a scene that won the 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Initial assumption that the elephant was the calf’s mother was disproved after researchers identified her as a known caretaker of other dead calves. Veronesi describes the image as the most emotionally impactful he has ever photographed, hoping it encourages viewers to recognise elephants as individuals with complex emotions. The winning photograph will be displayed at the Natural History Museum’s annual exhibition opening on 16 October 2026, alongside other global award‑winning shots.
Federico Veronesi of Italy has been crowned the winner of the 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year with an emotionally powerful shot of an adult elephant lifting a dead calf in the Huab River Valley of Namibia.
While tracking unusual drag marks across a dry riverbed, Veronesi discovered a female elephant carrying a limp calf, its leg stuck between trunk and tusk. Researchers identified her as an older female known for picking up dead calves of other matriarchs, showing the depth of social bonds in elephants.
“It is the most heart‑wrecking and fascinating I’ve ever seen,” Veronesi told the press, describing the image as revealing the complex emotions of animals. He hopes the photograph will encourage people to see animals as individuals with memories and feelings rather than only shapes.
The competition’s annual exhibition at the Natural History Museum will open on Friday 16 October 2026. Viewers can explore a collection of award‑winning shots from around the globe and see the winning photograph up close.
