A caiman wearing a wig, a sexy mantis and two bears having a chat: The finalists for the 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards have been announced. More than 10,000 entries from 112 countries show peak animal comedy.
Image: Diego Perez
A caiman appears to be wearing a wig: just one contender at the 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards, where the wilderness becomes a stage. The photos that made it to the final round showcase those fleeting moments when animals unintentionally appear human. Behind every quirky snapshot, however, lies a second message: This world must be protected.
Image: Paolo Torre
The competition has never been this fierce. More than 10,000 entries from 112 countries were submitted in 2026. The finalists include 40 photographs, three U16 entries, four portfolios, and nine videos. They reveal the humorous side of wildlife, including unexpected encounters that make even seasoned nature photographers laugh ― like with this seemingly unhappy bird.
Image: Jan Wittmer
Among the most striking images in the final selection is a leopard that appears to be doing a handstand. Or a bald eagle striding confidently across a frozen lake. A polar bear, on the other hand, looks as if it’s having a conversation with a seagull. It’s perspective and perfect timing that turn wild animals into unwitting comedians.
Image: Tapani Linnanmäki
Photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks, MBE, and Tom Sullam established the contest in 2015. The idea originated in the Serengeti. “What began as a small effort to raise awareness about wildlife conservation has grown into something much bigger than we ever imagined,” Sullam said. Today, these humorous animal photos reach millions of people and combine entertainment with conservation.
Image: Barbara Seiberl-Stark
Humor isn`t an end in itself here. The images aim to create a connection with animals while highlighting endangered habitats. “We use humor to help people develop empathy for wild animals,” explained Sullam. That empathy can inspire positive change. In 2026, 10% of the competition’s proceeds will go to the Born Free Foundation, directly supporting species conservation efforts.
Image: Jeetendra Chaware
Now the jury’s difficult task begins. The judges include host Kate Humble, actor and comedian Hugh Dennis and nature photographers Will Burrard-Lucas and Daisy Gilardini. New additions to the jury are author Roma Wells, photographers Will Fortescue and Jamie Smart, as well as climate comedian Stuart Goldsmith. Together, they must decide which quirky animal moment will be the ultimately winner.
Image: Charles Janson
What appears to be a collection of animal mishaps actually serves a serious purpose. The Comedy Wildlife Awards aim to make people laugh while also reminding them of how vulnerable nature and biodiversity are. Behind a caiman wearing a “wig,” chuckling bears and a bird chilling in a hammock lies a simple idea: People who laugh at animals also want to protect and preserve them.
Image: Thong Duy Vu
The overall winner receives more than a trophy: The grand prize is a safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Additional prizes include cameras and photography gear. Finalists compete across categories covering mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, underwater life, videos and youth photography. The public can also choose a favorite through the People’s Choice Award. Voting is open worldwide.
Image: Andy Parkinson
The winners of the 2026 Comedy Wildlife Awards will be announced in London on December 8. At the ceremony, the overall winner, category champions and special entries will be revealed. Finalist photos will then be displayed at Oxo Gallery, where visitors can enjoy the hilarious animal moments up close, free of charge, in central London.
Image: Dirk Koster9 images1 | 99 imageshttps://p.dw.com/p/5Nesm
