A captivating photo of a baby mountain gorilla from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park has won the grand prize at the 2025 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards, one of the world’s most celebrated competitions highlighting humorous and heartwarming moments in wildlife photography.
The winning image, titled “High Five,” was captured by British wildlife photographer Mark Meth-Cohn and stood out among more than 10,000 submissions from 109 countries. The photo captures a young gorilla in mid-play, exuding joy and mischief, perfectly embodying the competition’s mission of combining humor with wildlife storytelling.
Meth-Cohn described the moment as unforgettable. His team spent four days trekking through the dense forests of the Virunga Mountains, following several gorilla families. On the final day, they encountered the Amahoro family, known for its calm demeanor and strong social bonds.
“On this particular day, the adult gorillas were peacefully foraging, while the young ones were busy playing,” Meth-Cohn recounted. “One little male seemed determined to show off his gymnastics and dance moves, lifting his legs as if performing a joyful routine. It was magical to watch, and I’m grateful to have captured this moment.”
Winning the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards represents more than personal achievement for Meth-Cohn. The competition is recognized internationally for celebrating wildlife photography that entertains while promoting global conservation efforts. Last year, Meth-Cohn reached the finals, but this year’s grand prize marks a major milestone in his career.
The awards are judged on creativity, technical skill, and the ability to convey the unique personality of wildlife. Stefan Maier, Director of Marketing at Nikon Europe, highlighted the challenge of selecting winners from a shortlist of 40 finalists:
“Every winning photo combines humor, talent, and thoughtful storytelling. Mark’s image beautifully showcases the playful spirit of mountain gorillas and reminds the world how unique and precious these animals are,” Maier said.
Mountain gorillas are among the most endangered species on Earth, with an estimated 1,063 individuals remaining in the wild. Their habitat spans a 780-square-kilometer region across Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. Conservation initiatives, including Rwanda’s globally renowned gorilla trekking programs, have significantly contributed to population growth over recent decades.
This award shines a global spotlight on Rwanda as a premier wildlife and ecotourism destination. Gorilla trekking experiences in Volcanoes National Park attract thousands of visitors annually, offering tourists a chance to witness the intelligence, social behavior, and playful antics of these gentle giants firsthand.
For Meth-Cohn, the photograph underscores a larger purpose: promoting wildlife conservation through engaging imagery. By highlighting the humor, curiosity, and innocence of wild animals, the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards encourage audiences worldwide to value and protect endangered species.
“Photography is a tool for conservation as much as it is an art form,” Meth-Cohn explained. “When people laugh or smile at these animals, they connect emotionally, and that connection inspires care and protection.”
The global attention generated by the award also emphasizes the importance of preserving habitats critical to the survival of mountain gorillas and other wildlife. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, with its volcanic forests and rich biodiversity, remains a model for conservation success in Africa.
As interest in wildlife photography and ecotourism grows, initiatives like the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards play a vital role in merging entertainment with environmental advocacy. The playful baby gorilla of Meth-Cohn’s image has become an ambassador for conservation, reminding the world of the fragility and charm of endangered species.
The award-winning photo now joins a prestigious collection of humorous wildlife imagery that has captivated millions globally, strengthening the message that protecting nature is both vital and joyful.
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