Prepare to giggle as the animal kingdom showcases its wittiest moments! The 2024 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards has unveiled its shortlist, featuring 40 finalists that capture the quirkiest side of wildlife—from a startled owlet encountering a woodpecker to an elephant seal flashing a toothy grin, and even a mantis throwing its own dance party on a roadside in Spain.

This year’s competition, launched by Nikon in 2015, invites viewers into the delightful world of wildlife humor. The images included in the shortlist were selected from an impressive 9,000 entries from across 98 countries, highlighting not just the hilarity of nature but the creativity of photographers who strove to capture these relatable, amusing moments. One standout image features a fish surprisingly airborne, seemingly in pursuit of a low-flying bald eagle!

Among the finalists are not only still images but also three hilarious video entries. These clips include an ape struggling hilariously to climb a branch, a fox frolicking in the grass, and a tern taking an unexpected ride on another tern’s back—because who doesn't love a little avian humor?

Earlier this year, the competition teased audiences with images that included curiously photogenic three-headed giraffes and polar bears seemingly engaged in comedic banter. These jaw-dropping moments serve as visual punchlines that remind us of nature's whimsicality.

Mark your calendars for December 10, when the competition will announce the overall winner and category recipients in London. Categories for this year include not just mammals and birds, but also reptiles, amphibians, insects, aquatic species, young photographers, and the all-important people’s choice award.

Beyond the humor and charm, these photographs carry a significant message about wildlife conservation. Consider the poignant image capturing two birds in an unexpected moment—the kind of encounter that the endangered ivory-billed woodpecker will unfortunately never experience again. The joy and laughter these photos bring underscore the urgent need to protect the breathtaking diversity of life on our planet.

So, if you’re ready to see nature at its most hilarious and heartwarming, don’t miss the chance to vote for your favorite photos from the finalists. The Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards is not just about laughter; it's a reminder that we must cherish and protect the extraordinary wonder of wildlife that continues to amaze us!