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Grey seal pup
Grey seal pup
If you happen to visit England"s Norfolk coasts around this time, you"re very likely to see some grey seal pups experiencing the world for the first time. About 3,000 grey seal babies are born on the shoreline between early November and January each year—slightly earlier than the ones living on the US coasts—making the area one of the most significant breeding regions in the United Kingdom. The seal moms feed their pups on the beach for three weeks and their effort is noticeable. The offspring gain approximately 2 kilograms each day in those weeks! Following the feeding period, the young seals are not water-ready just yet. They stay on the beach until their pale fur darkens to a mottled grey, then head to the sea and learn to hunt themselves.Desktop Version
Modica, Sicily, Italy
Modica, Sicily, Italy
When Italy comes to mind, iconic cities like Milan, Rome and Venice often steal the spotlight. However, on the island of Sicily lies a less famous gem—Modica. It"s a city that has risen from the rubble of an earthquake in 1693 to become an architectural wonderland of Baroque-style buildings. With fewer than 60,000 inhabitants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobbled lanes, echoing with powerful footprints—from prehistoric tribes to the ancient Greeks and Romans to the medieval Arabs and Normans. Landmarks like the San Giorgio Cathedral and San Pietro Church awe visitors with their grandeur, and Modica"s recognised chocolate, crafted with Aztec-inspired techniques, tempts the palates of food enthusiasts. So, the next time Italy beckons, how about taking the road less travelled to Modica?Desktop Version
Leopard in a tree, Kruger National Park, South Africa
Leopard in a tree, Kruger National Park, South Africa
It"s time to step into the wild! Today"s snapshot shows a leopard perched in the lofty branches of Kruger National Park, South Africa. Leopards are one of the five living species of the genus Panthera, which also includes lions, tigers, jaguars and snow leopards. The leopard’s rose-like markings are called rosettes, which are most frequently found on cat species, and are distinct from spots, like those seen on cheetahs. Rosettes can be seen on leopards, jaguars, young lions and even Bengal house cats. Leopards are known for their solitary lifestyle, especially males, who roam their territories almost entirely in seclusion. Today, these majestic animals are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and their numbers are in decline globally. Through conservation efforts and events like World Wildlife Day, hopefully we can turn these trends around.Desktop Version
Cachoeira da Fumacinha, Bahia, Brazil
Cachoeira da Fumacinha, Bahia, Brazil
In Brazil"s Chapada Diamantina National Park lies the impressive Fumaça Waterfall that astounds visitors with its sheer power and beauty. This waterfall is also renowned for its free fall, which is approximately 340 metres, making it one of the highest in the country. Fumaça means smoke, which is appropriate as the cloud created by water droplets gives the impression of a hazy veil. A grueling trail leads to the top of the waterfall, where visitors can see stunning views of Chapada Diamantina. This park is both a visual marvel and an example of Brazil"s natural beauty.Desktop Version
Butterflies in a meadow, Germany
Butterflies in a meadow, Germany
Spring is just around the corner, and the scent of the first flowers is floating on the air. What better way to get ready for the warm weather to come than with this image of butterflies fluttering around a meadow in full bloom? Every butterfly is a natural wonder, with their unique patterns and vibrant colours. Nature seems to come to life when these insects are flapping their wings, filling the air with their elegant shapes. Found everywhere on Earth except Antarctica, there are over 18,000 species of butterflies. Starting life as caterpillars, they undergo a metamorphosis to become fully formed butterflies. Take a moment to contemplate the grace of butterflies, which remind us to appreciate the small things in life and to see the world with new eyes.Desktop Version
Rio Grande, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Rio Grande, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Is your head in the clouds? It"s time to keep it there! In today"s image, the sun sets over the Rio Grande and casts a light on the colourful hot air balloons above Albuquerque, New Mexico. Every year, people gather from all over the globe for the nine-day-long Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta—the largest hot air balloon festival in the world—to see skilled pilots expertly manoeuvre their baskets. Travellers throughout the year visit the capital city of New Mexico for the thrilling balloon rides, its cultural heritage, flavourful cuisine and breathtaking landscapes.Desktop Version
The Eiskapelle, Bavaria, Germany
The Eiskapelle, Bavaria, Germany
The Eiskapelle, or Ice Chapel, is a natural cave tucked in the impressive Bavarian Alps around the Königssee—a lake located in southeastern Germany. The Eiskapelle"s formation is attributed to the melting of the glacier that surrounds the Watzmann mountain and is particularly attractive due to its natural icicles and ice formations. Over the years, the site has undergone significant transformations due to environmental changes and temperature fluctuation. Despite the threat of global warming, scientists remain optimistic about this landscape"s preservation. The reason? Avalanches that descend from the Alps each winter provide new sources of snow and ice that should keep the cave sustained for years to come.Desktop Version
Oud-West neighbourhood, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Oud-West neighbourhood, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Welcome to Amsterdam! The capital of the Netherlands intrigues visitors from all over the world with its historic canals, versatile architecture and laidback atmosphere. The city"s history can be traced back to the 12th century when it was a fishing village on the banks of the Amstel River. Today, it boasts institutions like the Van Gogh Museum, the Eye Film Museum and the National Maritime Museum, which offer insights into the country"s history and arts legacy. Amsterdam"s canal ring area, built around the turn of the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to its fair share of restaurants, vintage shops and outdoor markets, especially in neighbourhoods like Oud-West, pictured in today"s image. Get ready to pedal because Amsterdam"s cycling culture is ubiquitous. With approximately 515 kilometres of bike lanes, it"s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.Desktop Version
Giant anteater
Giant anteater
Behold the giant anteater, whose shaggy-haired appearance is a familiar sight in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Giant anteaters are adapted to living in a variety of habitats. Although these mammals spend most of the time on the ground, they can climb trees. With powerful, curved claws and a tongue that can reach up to 60 centimetres, giant anteaters specialise in feeding on ants and termites, using their acute sense of smell to find their meal. Anteaters play a role as pest controllers and seed dispersers, so their survival—and the survival of many species—is crucial to keep ecosystems balanced.Desktop Version
Bee tending a honeycomb
Bee tending a honeycomb
Check out this tiny golden chef in its natural element! Buzzing beauty in every drop of honey, these winged insects play a vital role in preserving biodiversity and agriculture. Bees come in a range of sizes, from just 2 millimetres all the way up to 4 centimetres in length, there are over 20,000 known species. They are one of the most important pollinators in the world. They help keep trees, flowers and crops to stay alive, which helps secure food chains and boost biodiversity. It"s no overstatement to say that bees are vital for humans" survival. Honey bees, like the one in today"s image, construct nests from wax and produce a surplus amount of honey from nectar. This excess means that humans can harvest honey without endangering the bees themselves. The western honey bee is the most common species; humans have been keeping bees in artificial hives for around 10,000 years.Desktop Version
Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, Estonia
Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, Estonia
Among Estonia"s array of natural sites is the Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, established in 1994. This occasionally ice-covered, vast area of wetlands, forests and rivers is the largest natural reserve in Estonia. From the majestic white-tailed eagle to the elusive black stork, over 200 bird species can be found here. Situated in the county of Tartu and covering an expanse of 341 square kilometres, this reserve hosts unspoiled wilderness. A tapestry of aquatic forests unfolds here: still water, bog and floodplain forests, dotted with elongated sedge plants. Winding trails and boardwalks here invite explorers to craft their own adventures.Desktop Version
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
This densely layered image is not an error of your screen, but the fascinating tiers of fossil beds in Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Under the multicoloured coating lies the land"s history, conserving the remains of ancient horses, camels, tigers and rhinos. The barren landscape, decorated with pinnacles and prairies, was mainly formed by two contrary forces of nature: deposition (the process of small rocks being moved around and deposited in new places) and erosion (the process of rocks wearing away). The Red Shirt Table, at 1,020 metres, is the highest point on the rugged terrain. The park covers a 981-square-kilometre territory that was established as a national park on this day in 1978. Still thirsty for knowledge? Visit the national park"s museum collection. There are over 360,000 artefacts that have a lot more to reveal!Desktop Version
Colonnade in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico
Colonnade in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico
In the heart of Mexico"s central highlands, a colonial gem nestles amongst the rolling hills of Guanajuato. San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, has captivated visitors with its unique blend of artistic flair and cultural preservation. Founded in 1542 by Friar Juan de San Miguel, this city played a pivotal role in safeguarding the famed Silver Road, a vital artery for the colonial mining industry. As centuries passed, San Miguel de Allende evolved through various economic phases – from livestock farming and agriculture to a flourishing tourism industry. However, it was during the 1940s and 1950s that the city experienced a cultural renaissance, transforming into an artistic enclave that captured the imagination of tourists worldwide. Today, San Miguel de Allende remains a testament to resilience and reinvention, where cobblestone streets echo with stories of the past and vibrant plazas buzz with the energy of contemporary creativity.Desktop Version
Burrowing owl chicks, Wyoming, USA
Burrowing owl chicks, Wyoming, USA
In today"s image, we see four burrowing owls in Wyoming, USA, standing near their burrow, looking like a band of mischievous siblings. Known for their distinctive white eyebrows and yellow eyes, these owls are active during the day, hunting insects and small mammals. Burrowing owls, also known as shocos, are between 18 and 28 centimetres in height and have a wingspan of 50-60 centimetres. Their name comes from their ability to inhabit burrows dug by mammals like prairie dogs, skunks or armadillos, where they nest and roost. They often look out for each other, warning one another of predators. They lay three to five eggs per clutch, incubating them for about a month. The lifespan of these cute creatures is about six to eight years.Desktop Version
American bison
American bison
While temperatures continue to drop as we approach winter, the American bison couldn"t care less. These burly mammals get ready for snow with their shaggy coats and massive bodies that can weigh up to 900 kilograms. Despite their size, they are agile and can run up to 64 kilometres per hour. The bison population plummeted due to overhunting and westward expansion. At its lowest point, there were only a few hundred bison left in the wild. Bison herds have resided in Yellowstone National Park since prehistoric times, a site that is no stranger to frigid temperatures.Desktop Version
Polar bear mother and cubs
Polar bear mother and cubs
On the shore of Hudson Bay, the Canadian town of Churchill in Manitoba is quite remote, but the seasonal sights that await are worth the trek. From beluga whales and northern lights to the shipwreck of the SS Ithaka and the Sea Walls murals, there"s no end to the surprises you"ll find here. Moreover, it"s the ultimate polar bear hotspot, earning it the title of "polar bear capital of the world". From October to November, these white giants pass through, waiting for the sea ice to form so they can head out to hunt seals. Scared? Tourists can safely view polar bears from the comfort of custom vehicles. A so-called "polar bear jail" is also maintained to manage bear-human interactions. So, are you ready for a wild adventure that"ll send chills down your spine, but in a good way?Desktop Version
Kinder Scout, Peak District National Park, UK
Kinder Scout, Peak District National Park, UK
Within the vast expanse of the Peak District National Park in the United Kingdom lies the Kinder Scout Nature Reserve, the site of a significant people"s movement in British history. At around 635 metres, Kinder Scout stands tall as the highest point in the Peak District, its rugged moorlands and windswept plateaus having drawn adventurers and nature enthusiasts for generations. In 1932, this area was the stage for a historic mass trespass, where hundreds of people on foot protested for public access to these lands. This act of civil disobedience contributed to the passing of legislation that established national parks in the United Kingdom. The creation of the Peak District National Park ensured that these hills and valleys would be preserved for future generations to enjoy, marking a significant victory for public access and conservation efforts.Desktop Version
Bavarian Alps, Germany
Bavarian Alps, Germany
The crisp winter air settles above the snow-covered mountain landscape of the Bavarian Alps, located in Germany"s southern region and continuing across the border into Austria. Its snowy peaks are reflected in the smooth mirror of the frozen lake, giving the impression of harmonious silence and tranquility—which might be interrupted by the soft crunch of the snow under the footsteps of hikers or travellers. Today, Southern Bavaria has become a well-known destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.Desktop Version
Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Glimmering in aquamarine tones, Lake Louise rests amid the Canadian Rockies in Alberta"s Banff National Park. The Indigenous Nakoda people refer to the lake as Ho-run-num-nay, meaning "lake of the little fishes." The lake was later named by settlers for the British royal family"s Princess Louise, along with the adjoining town, which has the highest elevation of any Canadian town at almost 1,586 metres. This glacial lake is accessible throughout the year via the Trans-Canada Highway, and visitors can participate in activities like hiking during the summer and skiing in the winter.Desktop Version
Persepolis, Iran
Persepolis, Iran
Persepolis, located in Iran, is an ancient and astonishing archaeological site that was founded by Darius the Great around 518 B.C and once served as the ceremonial capital of the mighty Achaemenid Empire (c. 550–330 BCE). It was captured by Alexander the Great in 331-330 B.C. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is legendary for its magnificent ruins and Achaemenid architecture, characterised by grand palaces, intricate carvings and towering columns. Strolling through Persepolis, you"ll find yourself transported through time, wandering among the remains of its majestic past, marvelling at the well-preserved relics.Desktop Version
Castell Coch, Tongwynlais, South Wales
Castell Coch, Tongwynlais, South Wales
Castell Coch, Welsh for "Red Castle", is perched on a wooded hill in Cardiff, Wales. Built on the ruins of the old fortification, the renowned architect William Burges redesigned the castle between 1875 and 1879. The castle is a symphony of opulence, featuring lavish interiors adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant stained-glass and sumptuous furnishings. Its external features and high Victorian interiors stand as an example of the brilliance of its designer. Melding together remnants of the mediaeval fortress with 19th-century innovations, its design achieves a synthesis that is hailed as a highlight of the Gothic Revival in Britain. The surrounding beech forest contributes to the fairytale-like background, and it contains geological features of limestone, sandstone and rare plant species such as the butterfly orchid, bird"s-nest orchid and dog"s mercury. These woods are recognised and protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.Desktop Version
Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island, Berlin, Germany
Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island, Berlin, Germany
Featured in today"s image, Museum Island—embraced by the Spree River—is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is home to a museum quintet: Altes, Bode, Pergamon, Neues Museums and Alte Nationalgalerie. The Berlin Cathedral, one of the most popular attractions in the city, rises above the island. The cathedral is a stunning architectural masterpiece known for its magnificent green dome and fascinating history that spans across centuries. For hundreds of years, it has captivated visitors with its grandeur and intricate details. Its ornate façade stands as a testament to Berlin"s rich history and cultural heritage. Inside, it"s exquisite interior and artwork offer a glimpse into the city"s past and present artistic splendour.Desktop Version
Val di Funes, South Tyrol, Italy
Val di Funes, South Tyrol, Italy
You are in luck if you are looking for a peaceful escape from everyday life in an enchanted valley. The image displayed today is of Val di Funes, a stunning landscape located in the Dolomites, Italy. Surrounded by a breathtaking scenery, this little piece of heaven runs from the Isarco Valley to the heart of Puez-Odle Natural Park, making it an ideal destination for hikers. It offers a large selection of hiking paths, such as the Adolf Munkel Trail, with its spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. Val di Funes is rich in cultural heritage. Several historic churches have been built here, including the Santa Maddalena Church, a true little holy treasure from the 14th century.Desktop Version
Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, Fukushima, Japan
Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, Fukushima, Japan
The Tadami Line is one of the most scenic railway lines in Japan. It winds through beautiful landscapes from Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture to Uonuma, Niigata Prefecture. The Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, pictured in today"s image, is a well-known landmark along this stretch. As the train glides across the bridge, travellers are treated to gorgeous vistas of the river below and the lush forests that blanket the area. After a snowfall, the icy blue water of the Tadami River cuts a bold streak through the forest, providing a welcome splash of colour in a blanket of white.Desktop Version
Lago Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Lago Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Vivid turquoise waters mirroring the cerulean sky, surrounded by jagged peaks and lush forests—that"s Lake Pehoé for you. Nestled in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, this glacial lake is a masterpiece of nature. The towering peaks like the Cuernos del Paine and the Paine Massif are special too. But where does the lake get its hues from? It is primarily the result of the presence of finely ground rock particles and minerals, known as glacial flour or rock flour, suspended in the water. The term "Paine" is believed to originate from a Tehuelche word meaning "blue." At 1,813 square kilometres, Torres del Paine has been recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1978. From hiking to kayaking to stargazing, this place has a lot to offer. So, pack your sense of adventure and head south to beat the blues.Desktop Version