This highly-anticipated photo competition has released the comic finalists “into the wild.” Enjoy them — and vote for your favorite.

From bears hugging it out to a mafia boss squirrel, see hilarious animal photos shortlisted for the 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.

The Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards recognize the funniest images in wildlife photography.

“These images capture not only the humour and charm of wildlife, but also highlight the importance of conservation in a way that resonates with people of all ages and from all different walks of life,” Stefan Maier, Nikon Europe Senior General Manager Marketing, said in a statement.

Discover the top 10 funniest wildlife photos of 2024! The Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards unveiled its finalists in this year’s photography contest, showcasing hilarious animal moments.

From flying squirrels and a fish chasing an eagle to a cheetah playing hide and seek, here are some of the world’s most humorous and captivating wildlife images.

The photography contest benefits the Whitley Fund for Nature, a UK-based charity that awards grants to environmental and wildlife conservation leaders. Take a look at the funniest wildlife photos of the year.

Among the selected images and videos are a cheetah playing hide-and-seek behind a tree, bears sharing a hug, a fish chasing an eagle through the sky, and a tiny flying squirrel "bossing it like a Mafia Boss!