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Comedy Wildlife Photography Award 2024 finalists revealed
Votes are open for the Affinity People’s Choice.


The finalists for the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photography Award have been revealed, and votes have opened for the Affinity People’s Choice.

There are 40 individual entries to choose from, as well as four portfolio entries and three video entries. Members of the public can vote for their choice until 31 October and will be entered into a £500 prize draw.

This year’s competition saw nearly 9,000 entries from 98 countries – all competing to win a one-week safari in the Masai Mara.


'Smiley Elephant Seal' (C) Gabriel Rojo/Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards


Gabriel Rojo’s entry, ‘Smiley Elephant Seal’, shows a southern elephant seal with what looks like a big smile. In fact this ‘smile’ is a look of astonishment as it prepares to flee from a dominant male.


 
'Easy fellas – Hajime!' (C) Philippe Ricordel/Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards


Philippe Ricordel’s photograph of a group of polar bears is called ‘Easy fellas – Hajime!’. This is a term used by Judo referees ahead of a fight, as two of the bears appear to be ready to spar.

'Saying my prayers' (C) Christine Haines/Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards


Christine Haines’ entry is called ‘Saying my prayers’, depicting a peaceful sea otter at Lake Clark National Park. Otters hold their food with both paws, creating the impression that they are praying.


'Stuck squirrel' (C) Milko Marchetti/Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards

‘Stuck squirrel’, entered by Milko Marchetti, appears to show a squirrel in a spot of bother. While climbing into a burrow, it stuck both of its feet out as if it was stuck.

The entries will be judged by an expert panel, including TV presenter Kate Humble, comedian Hugh Dennis, and wildlife photographers Daisy Gilardini and Will Burrard-Lucas.

The Overall Winner, Category Winners and Highly Commended Winners will be announced on Tuesday, 10 December at an Awards Night in London. This will be followed by a week-long exhibition of the entries at the Gallery@Oxo from 10-16 December.

Tom Sullam, who co-founded the competition, said: "It’s a privilege to be part of this exciting journey, making us all laugh and raising awareness of animal conservation. We can’t wait to announce the winners!”

Images © Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards

 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.