For 13 years, this photographer has captured hibernating bats in protected, restricted-access mine tunnels in Hungary – now he's won one of Europe's most respected photo competitions
"This image speaks to a larger truth about the natural world: much of life exists beyond our immediate awareness, in places we seldom visit and among organisms we rarely notice," explains the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition
Photographer Imre Potyó has spent the past 13 years capturing images of hibernating bats in restricted Hungarian mine tunnels, earning him the prestigious title of European Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026. This image, titled "Hidden Worlds," allows viewers to witness the lesser-known habitats and behaviors of these creatures.
According to Tom Gilks, on behalf of the jury, "Hidden Worlds" highlights the fact that much of the natural world operates unseen and unnoticed. As a scientist and environmental expert, Potyó has been recognized with numerous accolades, including Hungary's Nature Photographer of the Year, the UK's Wildlife Photographer of the Year, and HIPA, an international photography competition from Dubai.
Using a Nikon D7200, Potyó took the winning shot, employing a 41-second exposure, f/25 aperture, and ISO 320 setting. The photograph depicts a pin mould thriving on guano in the bat's roost, captured using a macro lens during a controlled bat count.
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