Funniest animal photos from 2021

If you live with a pet of any kind, you’ve probably noticed that animals are flipping hilarious. The same goes for wild creatures spanning the planet. Their antics can dazzle, raise questions, and add some comedy to the pursuit of science.

A lot of the fun, however, rests on interpretation. A photographer might snap a creature in its habitat a certain way or capture an interaction with other members of its species because the scenario struck them as amusing. The viewers then get a second-hand look at the artist’s perspective. But they’ll never know what was running through the subject’s mind at that moment—not until biologists tap into animals’ self-awareness.

While you wait for that Dr. Doolittle breakthrough, check out the finalists of the 2021 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards. These reptiles, mammals, fish, and birdies are completely meme-worthy and will add some sunshine to your day. Maybe even literally, if you choose to head outdoors and see what silly sights you can spot in your own backyard.

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