British amateur photographer Nima Sarikhani has captured hearts around the world with his ethereal image of a polar bear dozing peacefully on a small iceberg — a photograph that has now been voted the People’s Choice winner in the 59th annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

This year’s People’s Choice vote broke records, with more than 75,000 votes cast by wildlife enthusiasts and museum visitors globally. Sarikhani’s photograph triumphed over 24 other shortlisted finalists, selected from nearly 50,000 entries submitted to the Natural History Museum in London.

A Poignant Image in a Warming World

Dr. Douglass Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum, emphasized the emotional impact of Sarikhani’s work:

“Nima’s breathtaking and poignant image allows us to see the beauty and fragility of our planet. It highlights the deep connection between an animal and its habitat while reminding us of the growing threats posed by climate change and habitat loss.”

Sarikhani captured the dreamy scene off the coast of Norway after three days of searching for polar bears. When sea ice proved difficult to find, the expedition vessel changed course, heading north toward the few remaining patches of ice. There, the group encountered a pair of polar bears.

Around midnight, one of the bears climbed onto a small iceberg, shaped a shallow hollow with his paws, and curled up — giving Sarikhani the perfect moment to capture this intimate portrait of rest in a rapidly changing Arctic.

The photographer reflected on the honor, saying:

“I am so honored to have won this year’s People’s Choice Award. This photograph has stirred strong emotions in many who have seen it. While climate change remains the greatest challenge we face, I hope this image also inspires hope. There is still time to repair the damage we have caused.”

Highly Commended Finalists

Alongside Sarikhani’s winning image, the Natural History Museum also announced four Highly Commended photographs from this year’s People’s Choice shortlist:

• “Aurora Jellies” by Audun Rikardsen — a magical underwater scene illuminated by the Northern Lights.
  

• “Shared Parenting” by Mark Boyd — a tender portrait of cooperation among Kenyan wildlife.
  

• “Starling Murmuration” by Daniel Dencescu — a stunning aerial display of synchronized movement.
  

• “The Happy Turtle” by Tzahi Finkelstein — a cheerful snapshot of a turtle seemingly smiling beneath the water’s surface.

A Legacy of Global Wildlife Storytelling

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, produced by the Natural History Museum, has been showcasing the world’s finest nature photography since its founding in 1965 by BBC Wildlife Magazine. The Museum partnered with the contest in 1984 and now oversees its global operations.

While Sarikhani celebrates his People’s Choice win, the Museum is already reviewing entries for the 60th Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Winners will be revealed in October at a ceremony in South Kensington, continuing a legacy that spans six decades.