After a record-breaking number of submissions from 112 countries worldwide, the finalists for the Comedy Wildlife Awards have been revealed! But who will take the crown? Will it be a seemingly seductive praying mantis, or perhaps a pair of bears that appear to be having quite the gossip session? Let's dig in!
You know it's going to be a strong year for the competition when a record number of submissions come through! The 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards received 10,000 entries from 112 countries, showcasing the animal kingdom's natural humor through beautiful yet hilarious photography.
Professional wildlife photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks MBE and Tom Sullam founded the contest in 2015 to use lighthearted animal photography to raise awareness of and support for wildlife conservation. Nikon got in on the action ahead of the 2024 awards, signing on as a co-headline and title partner.
Though there are no cash prizes for the winners, they do receive once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities – such as a weeklong safari for two – as well as high-end Nikon cameras, lenses, and other professional gear.
Let's meet some of this year's finalists, of which there are 40 total! But organizers also selected nine video finalists, four portfolio finalists, and three junior finalists. Winners will be announced December 8, but the public can vote for their favorite People's Choice winner through March 1, 2027.
You can check out a few of them below:
Of note, the People's Choice portion of the competition has 43 (yes, 43!) finalists. View them on the dedicated website to cast a vote for your favorite! May the most adorably wild animal moment win!