Prepare to Laugh: The Hilarious Finalists of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards Revealed!

Get ready for some heartwarming giggles as the finalists for this year’s Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards have been unveiled! Bursting with personality, images including a grinning elephant seal, a hapless squirrel stuck in an awkward pose, and a thoughtfully pensive chimpanzee are vying for top honors in this year’s competition.

A staggering 40 images, along with four portfolio submissions and three entertaining video entries, have made it to the shortlist, according to a statement released by the event organizers on Thursday. These whimsical snapshots have captured unforgettable moments in the animal kingdom, showcasing not just their antics but also their undeniable charm.

Among the other standout entries, you’ll find a tern that had a rather unfortunate crash landing, an adorably clumsy owlet, and blissfully lazy bear cubs clinging to their mother's back for the ultimate ride. Each photograph tells a story that not only brings a smile to our faces but also sheds light on the pressing need for wildlife conservation.

Stefan Maier, senior general manager of marketing at Nikon Europe, expressed pride in being part of this delightful competition: “These images capture not only the humor and charm of wildlife, but also highlight the importance of conservation in a way that resonates with people of all ages and from all different walks of life.” This sentiment is especially poignant as nearly 9,000 entries were submitted from 98 countries, all vying for a chance to be recognized by a panel of judges.

In an exciting twist, there is also a People’s Choice Award, allowing the public to vote for their favorite entry on the competition's website. It’s a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to engage and support their favorite photographers while spreading awareness about wildlife issues.

Each year, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards support a vital conservation organization, and for 2024, the Whitley Fund for Nature has been selected. This UK-based charity champions conservation leaders from the global south, emphasizing the importance of protecting our planet's delicate ecosystems.

Awards co-founder Tom Sullam remarked on the incredible impact of the competition: “It’s a privilege to be part of this exciting journey, making us all laugh and raising our awareness of animal conservation.”

Mark your calendars: the overall winners, along with category award recipients and those highly commended, will be recognized in a grand ceremony set to take place on December 10 in London. Afterward, all of the finalists' delightful works will be showcased in an exhibition at theGallery@Oxo in London from December 10-16. So, don’t miss the chance to witness these unforgettable moments frozen in time that remind us of the joy and humor shared by our animal friends while highlighting the importance of conservation efforts. Stay tuned for more laughter and inspiration!