Meet the Winner of Nikon’s Funny Animal Photo Contest
After reviewing nearly 10,000 submissions from photographers across 108 countries, judges for the 11th annual Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards finally revealed their top choice. The competition, known for blending humor with wildlife appreciation, announced its 2025 winner on December 9, Mark Meth-Cohn’s captivating photo titled “High Five.”
The winning shot features a “dancing gorilla skipping through a forest clearing,” as described by the Comedy Wildlife Awards team. The image instantly captured hearts worldwide and earned its place as this year’s funniest wildlife photo.
The Story Behind the Winning Shot
Instagram | @nikoneurope | Meth-Cohn captured his award-winning gorilla photo after a four-day Rwanda trek.
Meth-Cohn captured his award-winning image in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, home to the famous mountain gorillas. He spent four days trekking through the dense forest before stumbling upon a lively gorilla family known as the Amahoro group.
That day, a playful young male stole the spotlight. “He kept twirling, tumbling, and kicking like he was showing off for the camera,” Meth-Cohn shared. “I was excited to see him perform, and I’m happy that this picture captures that moment forever.”
The image highlights both the humor and humanity found in nature, reminding audiences that wildlife photography can inspire conservation while sparking smiles.
Celebrating Creativity and Conservation
Instagram | @nikoneurope | @comedywildlifephoto | The awards show how funny wildlife photos can spread joy while encouraging people to care for nature.
Winners across all categories received Nikon camera gear and global recognition. However, the competition’s mission goes far beyond laughter. The organizers emphasize authenticity, no AI or digital manipulation is permitted. Nikon also welcomes entries from any camera brand, keeping the contest open and fair.
The Comedy Wildlife Awards originated from a simple but powerful goal, to celebrate the lighter side of nature while giving back to it. Each year, 10% of proceeds go directly to the Whitley Fund for Nature, supporting vital conservation work worldwide.
With “High Five” taking the crown, this year’s Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards once again proved that joy and wildlife advocacy can go hand in hand. Through humor, creativity, and compassion, these images remind everyone that protecting nature can start with a smile.