Record 10,000 Entries Shortlist 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards

Key points

• Record 10,000 entries received from 112 countries, the highest in the award's history.
• Shortlist includes 40 individual photos, 3 under-16 entries, 4 portfolios, and 9 videos.
• Winners to be announced on December 8, with exhibition running December 9-13 in London.
• Top prize is a safari in Kenya's Masai Mara, plus Nikon cameras and gear for other winners.
• This year's competition supports the Born Free Foundation, using humor to foster empathy for wildlife.

Background

The Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards have been running since 2015, using humor to raise awareness for wildlife conservation. Previous years have also seen record entries, with 2025 featuring winners like breakdancing foxes and gossiping leopards. The 2026 Wildlife Photographer of the Year shortlist, announced in August, also highlighted diverse wildlife behavior, though with a more serious tone.

How outlets are covering it

Time Out Worldwide emphasizes the sheer volume of entries and the humor of specific shots like the 'Sexy Mantis' and 'If I Can't See You' elephant. Popular Science focuses on the conservation angle, quoting co-founder Tom Sullam on using humor to create empathy and behavioral change. The New York Post highlights the California-based squirrel photo 'Are You Kidding Me?' as a standout US entry. Smithsonian Magazine provides a broader overview, noting the record entries and the support for the Born Free Foundation, while also featuring a video finalist and a portfolio entry.

Why it matters

The record-breaking entry count demonstrates the global appeal of wildlife photography and the effectiveness of humor in engaging the public with conservation issues. The awards not only celebrate artistic merit but also directly support conservation organizations, linking entertainment with environmental awareness.

What to watch

Judges will examine the finalists over the next few weeks, with winners announced on December 8. The exhibition will run from December 9 to 13 at Gallery@Oxo in London.