A gorilla’s delightful dance in the heart of a forest has clinched the top spot in the Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards 2025, bringing joy and laughter to viewers worldwide. The prestigious accolade was awarded to British photographer Mark Meth-Cohn for his captivating image captured in Rwanda earlier this year.
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Mark Meth-Cohn’s winning photo, titled ‘High Five’, features a young gorilla exuberantly frolicking through a forest clearing, showcasing his acrobatic prowess with pirouettes, tumbles, and high kicks. The primate’s infectious energy and playful spirit radiate from the image, earning Meth-Cohn the highest honour in this year’s Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards.
In a press release obtained by PEOPLE, Meth-Cohn expressed his excitement about capturing the memorable moment, stating, “One young male was especially keen to show off his acrobatic flair, pirouetting, tumbling, and high kicking.” The photo stood out among a record-breaking 10,000 entries from 109 countries, solidifying its place as a remarkable piece in the Awards’ eleven-year history.
The humorous and heartwarming nature of wildlife photography was further highlighted by other standout entries in the competition. From a chimpanzee caught picking its nose to frogs engaging in a playful wrestling match in the water, the diverse array of images showcased the lighter side of the animal kingdom.
Maggie Hoffman’s portfolio entry of a chimpanzee’s quirky behaviour earned her the top spot in the portfolio category, while teenager Grayson Bell’s captivating shot of two frogs in a playful tussle secured him the reptile, amphibian, and insect award. Bell shared his experience of capturing the moment, revealing the unexpected humour he discovered in the natural world.
The competition also featured highly commended entries such as Valtteri Mulkahainen’s charming image of a smiling bear and Liliana Luca’s hilarious photograph of a lemur appearing to lick its finger. These captivating snapshots captured spontaneous moments in nature, showcasing the whimsical and entertaining side of wildlife.
The Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards serve as a delightful reminder of the joy and laughter that animals can bring into our lives. Through the lens of talented photographers like Mark Meth-Cohn and the other award recipients, audiences are treated to a unique perspective on the natural world, filled with humour, beauty, and unexpected moments of connection.
As the winning photo continues to spread smiles and spark laughter, it stands as a testament to the power of photography in capturing the essence of wildlife in its most candid and amusing moments. The Comedy Wildlife Awards celebrate the art of storytelling through images, inviting viewers to appreciate the playful side of nature and the endless fascination it holds for us all.