The Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards, an annual competition that celebrates the lighter side of wildlife photography, has announced its 2023 finalists. The shortlist features 41 photos, three videos and three portfolios of grin-tastic animal moments from around the world.
A Dove’s Dilemma
One of the standout photos in the shortlist is titled “That wasn’t here yesterday!!” and shows a white-winged dove flying head first into a cactus in Arizona, USA. The photographer, Wendy Kaveney, said she was amazed by the dove’s reaction and how it managed to avoid getting hurt by the spiky plant.
Another photo that captures a bird’s misfortune is “What Nice Teeth You Have”, which depicts an African wild dog showing off its impressive dentition to a startled-looking bird in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. The photographer, Henry Keepin, said he was lucky to witness the interaction between the two animals.
Otterly Adorable
Some of the photos showcase the playful and expressive nature of animals, such as “Otter Ballerinas”, which shows two smooth-coated otters seemingly performing a synchronized dance in Singapore. The photographer, Otter Kwek, said he was fascinated by the otters’ agility and grace.
Another photo that demonstrates the animals’ sense of humor is “Boing!”, which features a kangaroo jumping in the air with its legs spread wide in Westerfolds Park, Australia. The photographer, Lara Mathews, said she was amused by the kangaroo’s energetic and joyful pose.
The Happy Turtle
Some of the photos also highlight the beauty and diversity of wildlife, such as “The Happy Turtle”, which shows a swamp turtle smiling with a dragonfly on its nose in Israel’s Jezreel Valley. The photographer, Tzahi Finkelstein, said he was delighted by the turtle’s expression and the dragonfly’s timing.
Another photo that celebrates the wildlife’s charm is “Fellowship”, which shows three king penguins holding hands in the Falkland Islands. The photographer, Dario Podesta, said he was moved by the penguins’ gesture and their resemblance to humans.
A Cause for Conservation
The Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards was founded in 2015 by professional photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks MBE and Tom Sullam, with the aim of promoting wildlife conservation through humor and positivity. This year, the competition is supporting the Whitley Fund for Nature, a UK-based charity that funds conservation projects in 80 countries.
The winners of the competition will be announced on November 23, and will receive various prizes, including a week-long safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara and a handmade trophy. The public can also vote for their favorite photo on the Comedy Wildlife website and enter a draw to win £500 cash.
