Photography student Gunnar Hartmann captured the winner of Nature's 2026 Scientist at Work competition with a striking image of northern bald ibis birds migrating through Spain.
The photograph documents a critical conservation effort. Northern bald ibis populations had dwindled to near extinction. The species disappeared entirely from Europe by the early 1900s due to hunting and habitat loss. Today, conservation teams work to reestablish wild populations by guiding young birds to their winter homes.
Hartmann's image shows handlers directing the ibis during their migration, illustrating the hands-on work required to save this species from disappearing entirely. The northern bald ibis, recognizable by its bare red face and distinctive crest, now survives only in small, fragmented groups across North Africa and the Middle East.
The Scientist at Work competition, run by Nature journal, recognizes photography that captures scientific research in action. Hartmann's submission stood out for combining artistic composition with clear documentation of active conservation science. The image communicates both the beauty of the birds and the dedicated effort behind species recovery programs.
Conservation groups have used guided migration techniques for years, training captive-bred ibis to follow aircraft or human guides to traditional wintering grounds. This approach addresses a major challenge: young birds raised in captivity lack the navigational knowledge passed between generations in wild populations. By establishing these routes, researchers rebuild the behavioral patterns necessary for self-sustaining populations.
The northern bald ibis remains classified as endangered. Current reintroduction programs operate across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Success requires sustained funding, international cooperation, and long-term commitment from conservation teams. Hartmann's award-winning photograph highlights why this work matters and draws public attention to species recovery efforts that often operate behind the scenes.