A striking photo shows a mother polar bear and her three cubs resting on bare ground. Their brown coats are covered in mud, a reminder of their struggles. This image is in the running for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Nuveen People’s Choice Award. People can vote for their favorite from 24 shortlisted images selected by the Natural History Museum in London.
Photographer Christopher Paetkau captured this moment along Canada’s Hudson Bay coast. The bears were on their journey north to the Arctic. In the summer heat, the family paused to nap. The mother bear and one cub dozed off while the other two keep watch, resting their heads on her back.
This poignant photograph highlights the impact of climate change on polar bears. These majestic creatures rely on sea ice for survival, but as it melts, they are forced to adapt. Unlike other bears, polar bears don’t hibernate. In the past, they spent the whole year hunting seals on the ice. Now, with decreasing sea ice, they must seek new sources of food, such as reindeer, which alters their behavior and survival patterns.
There’s another shortlisted image of a polar bear cub from a recent hunting trip in Svalbard, Norway. Tragically, this cub’s mother was found dead after they ventured too close to a human settlement. Locals had to intervene, and the cub was shot due to its aggressive behavior.
Voting for the People’s Choice Award is open online until March 18, with winners announced on March 25. Both the winning image and other top entries will be showcased in an exhibition at the Natural History Museum until July 2026.
This year’s selection of images not only captures stunning wildlife but also sheds light on crucial environmental issues. “Each photograph tells a story that speaks to the challenges facing our planet,” said Douglas Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum. The connection between wildlife and climate change is more important than ever, as these narratives can inspire action and awareness.
For more information on the shortlisted images, you can check the Natural History Museum’s official site. These captivating stories and breathtaking visuals remind us why we must protect our planet and its inhabitants.
