Can Elephants Feel Grief? A Heartbreaking Photograph Wins the World's Top Wildlife Photography Award

Kathmandu, October 15, 2026

A Heartbreaking Photograph Wins Global Recognition

Italian photographer Federico Veronesi was announced as the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 on October 13 for his photograph The Aftermath, captured in Namibia's Huab River Valley. The black-and-white image shows a female elephant carrying a dead calf and received the top honor in the annual competition organized by London's Natural History Museum. The photograph was recognized for documenting unusual animal behavior and raising questions about how elephants respond to death.

The Story Behind the Winning Photograph

Veronesi was tracking elephants along a dry riverbed when he noticed unusual drag marks in the sand. After following the marks, he reached a family group and saw a female elephant carrying a dead calf, with one of its legs positioned between her tusk and trunk. The encounter resulted in the photograph that would later earn him the competition's highest award.

Do Elephants Understand Death?

The photograph has brought attention to the complex behavior of elephants around deceased individuals. Researchers have documented both African and Asian elephants making sounds, remaining near dead companions, examining bones and sometimes carrying deceased elephants. Some scientists believe these actions may suggest an awareness of death, while others consider them possible expressions of grief. However, the exact meaning of such behavior remains uncertain.

Selected From More Than 65,000 Entries

The 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition received a record 65,403 entries from 121 countries and territories. Veronesi's photograph won both the overall adult title and the Behaviour: Mammals category. The competition, now in its 62nd year, recognizes outstanding wildlife photography based on originality, technical quality, creativity and ethical practices.

Winning Photograph to Be Displayed in London

The winning photograph will be displayed at the Natural History Museum in London as part of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, opening on October 16, 2026, and continuing until July 11, 2027. The exhibition will feature award-winning photographs from around the world, highlighting wildlife behavior, biodiversity and the importance of protecting nature.