Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2026 Finalists Revealed: 10,000 Entries, 43 Finalists, and a December 8 Verdict
The 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards have released its finalists, selected from a record 10,000 submissions across 112 countries. The shortlist features 43 images, including a squirrel attacking an owl and a caiman with a 'wig,' with winners to be announced on December 8.
Key points
- Record-breaking 10,000 entries were received from 112 countries for the 2026 competition.
- The shortlist includes 43 finalists, comprising individual photos, portfolios, and videos.
- Winners will be announced on December 8, with the top prize being a safari in Kenya's Masai Mara.
- The competition supports the Born Free Foundation, using humor to promote wildlife conservation.
- Notable entries include a squirrel knocking an owl from a perch and a caiman with floating vegetation on its head.
Background
The Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards have been running since 2015, using humor to raise awareness for wildlife conservation. Previous years' competitions have also seen record submissions, with the 2026 edition being the largest yet. The awards are distinct from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, which focuses on more traditional, serious wildlife photography.
How outlets are covering it
The Guardian, Popular Science, and USA Today all highlight the same core facts: the record 10,000 entries, the 112 countries, and the December 8 announcement. The New York Post focuses specifically on the US-based photographer Kevin Lohman and his 'Are You Kidding Me?' squirrel photo, while the other outlets provide a broader overview of the international finalists. All sources agree on the conservation angle, with Popular Science quoting co-founder Tom Sullam on the use of humor to foster empathy.
Why it matters
The competition's record-breaking entry numbers demonstrate the global appeal of wildlife photography and the power of humor in conservation messaging. The December 8 announcement and the associated exhibition in London will likely draw significant public attention to the Born Free Foundation and the animals featured in the winning images.
What to watch
Winners will be announced on December 8, 2026. The finalists will be exhibited in London from December 9 to 13. The overall winner will receive a Nikon camera and equipment, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime safari in Kenya's Masai Mara.
- Comedy wildlife photography award finalists 2026 – in pictures The Guardian
- 18 hilarious photos from the 2026 Comedy Wildlife Awards Popular Science
- These hilarious wildlife photos prove nature has a sense of humor USA Today
- California squirrel’s flying attack is finalist in national wildlife photo competition New York Post
- Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2026 — Finalists Revealed Alongside 2 London Exhibitions Forbes
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on The Guardian