Lynx cub licking by Antonio Liebana Navarro, Spain

Iberian lynx are one of the world’s most endangered cats due to habitat loss, decreasing food sources, car hits and hunting. Thanks to conservation efforts the species is recovering and can be found in areas of Portugal and Spain. Antonio captured this image while leading a conservation project based around photography in Peñalajo, Castilla La Mancha, Spain. He knew a family of lynx used this waterhole, so he rigged up a hide close by. He was lucky enough to capture the moment the cub lifted its head, licked its lips and gazed into the camera

Photograph: Antonio Liebana Navarro/2021 Wildlife Photographer of the Year