10 funniest images of wildlife that have won awards

Wildlife photography often captures the majestic and awe-inspiring aspects of nature, but sometimes, it also reveals the humorous side of the animal kingdom. The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards celebrate these moments, showcasing the funniest and most entertaining images of wildlife. Here are ten award-winning images that have brought smiles and laughter to people around the world.

Image: Jan Piecha/Instagram

Captured by Ken Jensen in Yunnan, China, this image shows a golden silk monkey in a rather uncomfortable position. Taken in August 2020, the monkey appears to be in pain as it sits on a wire, creating a comical yet relatable scene. This photo won the Overall Winner award in 2021, highlighting the lighter side of wildlife.

Image: Ken Jensen/Instagram

Andrea Zampatti’s photo of a dormouse seemingly laughing was taken in Italy’s Abruzzo National Park in 2016. The dormouse, perched on a flower, looks like it is having a hearty laugh, making it an instant favorite. This image won the Creatures of the Land category in 2017, charming viewers with its joyful expression.

Image: Andrea Zampatti/Instagram

Mark Fitzpatrick’s hilarious shot of a turtle giving the camera what looks like a rude gesture was taken at Lady Elliot Island, Australia, in 2020. The turtle’s timing and the angle of the shot make it appear as if it is flipping the bird, earning it the title of the People’s Choice Award in 2020.

Image: greenme_it/Instagram

Arthur Telle Thiemann captured a grinning parrotfish in the Canary Islands in 2019. The fish’s wide, toothy smile is both endearing and amusing, making it a standout entry. This photo won the Underwater category in 2019, showcasing the playful side of marine life.

Image: thecrankycamera/Instagram

Mary McGowan’s image of a surprised squirrel was taken in Florida, USA, in 2018. The squirrel’s wide-eyed expression and raised paws make it look like it has been caught doing something mischievous. This photo won the Overall Winner award in 2018, delighting audiences with its comedic timing.

Image: BBC/Facebook

John Speirs captured a pigeon with leaves perfectly placed on its head, making it look like it’s wearing a hat. This humorous image won the Highly Commended award in 2021, showcasing the whimsical side of wildlife.

Arthur Trevino’s photo shows a prairie dog appearing to fend off a bald eagle in mid-attack. The prairie dog’s stance and the timing of the shot make it look like a martial arts move, earning it the Highly Commended award in 2021.

Vicki Jauron's image captures a delightful and humorous moment of an elephant enjoying a mud bath on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. In this image, the elephant appears to have face-planted into the mud, creating a comical scene that highlights the playful and carefree nature of these majestic animals. The photograph, part of a series, showcases the elephant’s sheer joy and exuberance as it indulges in this muddy activity, bringing a smile to viewers’ faces and celebrating the lighter side of wildlife

Image: Vicki Jauron/Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

“Peekaboo” by Shane Keena is a delightful and humorous photograph that captures an owl seemingly playing a game of peekaboo. Taken in California, USA, this image won the Creatures of the Air category in the 2018 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards. The owl’s surprised expression as it peeks out from below adds a touch of whimsy to the scene, showcasing the lighter and more endearing side of wildlife.

Image: Shane Keena/Instagram