Organizers of the 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards have announced their shortlist of 47 hilarious images and nine videos. Selected from over 10,000 submissions across 112 countries, these lighthearted captures aim to promote worldwide animal conservation through humor.
Co-founded in 2015 by professional photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks MBE and Tom Sullam, the international competition has grown from the Serengeti into a global phenomenon. It shows that comedic animal behavior and visual storytelling can unite people around environmental protection.
A Closer Look at the 2026 Finalists
The 2026 shortlist includes 40 individual finalists, three under-16 entries, four portfolios, and nine video finalists. Each entry captures animals in awkward or relatable poses. Standouts include Jan Wittmer’s goldcrest titled “Angry Bird,” Diego Perez’s “S**xy Mantis,” and Hannah Dietl’s “Cheeky Little Elephant” in the Under 25 category.
Other notable mentions are Andy Parkinson’s olive baboon shot “Hercules, the baboon,” Carolyn Moore’s brown hare photo “Oops – I think I just parped,” and Charles Janson’s brown bears in “Bears Sharing a Joke” from Chinitna Bay, Alaska.
Public Voting and Competition Details
Conservation is a core pillar of the competition. For the 2026 event, the awards are partnering with the Born Free Foundation, donating 10 percent of their total profits to support wildlife protection initiatives.
Fans can participate through the STERNA People’s Choice Award. Public voting runs from October 2, 2026, to March 1, 2027. Voters can help choose a crowd favorite and automatically enter a drawing to win a £500 cash prize.
The overall competition winner, category winners, and highly commended entries will be announced at a ceremony in London on December 8, 2026. The grand prize includes a safari adventure with Alex Walker’s Serian in the Masai Mara, plus Nikon photography gear like the Z6III, Z50II, and ZR systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many finalists made the 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards shortlist?
The 2026 shortlist features 47 total pieces: 40 individual finalists, three under-16 entries, four portfolios, and nine video category finalists.
How many total entries were submitted this year?
The competition received more than 10,000 entries from photographers in 112 countries, marking a record volume of participation.
When and where will the competition winners be announced?
The Overall Winner, category winners, and highly commended entries will be revealed in London on December 8, 2026.
Can the public vote for their favorite funny animal photo?
Yes. STERNA People’s Choice Award voting is open from October 2, 2026, through March 1, 2027, giving voters a chance to win a £500 prize.
Which conservation organization is supported by the 2026 awards?
The competition partners with the Born Free Foundation for 2026, contributing 10 percent of its profits to support global animal welfare and habitat conservation.
