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Jan 14, 2024Whooper swans

An elegant creature for a majestic setting. These all-white birds with yellow-and-black bills, gliding on the mirror of Lake Kussharo in Japan, are whooper swans—the Eurasian equivalent to the North American trumpeter swans. Named for their loud "whooping" call, these beauties, with a wingspan between 2 to 3 metres, are one of the world"s heaviest birds that are able to fly. While whooper swans are Finland"s national bird, they only spend their breeding season there. Those swans, as well as others in various northern areas migrate to warmer, often coastal areas when cold weather sets in. All that travel doesn"t ruin their relationships—these waterfowl form strong, monogamous pairs that can last for life.Desktop Version

Jan 31, 2024Burchells zebras

It"s time for some black-and-white thinking. While all zebras have the iconic black-and-white stripes, there are actually three different species of zebras: plains, mountain and Grévy"s zebras. Today"s snapshot shows Burchell"s zebras, a subspecies of the plains zebra, in Rietvlei Nature Reserve, South Africa. Found across eastern and southern Africa, zebras thrive in savannas, shrublands, woodlands and even mountain regions. They spend most of their time eating—grasses, leaves and shrubs are their favourites—and have been known to travel hundreds of kilometres in search of food and water. Sadly, all three varieties of zebra are under threat from hunting and habitat destruction, however, concentrated conservation efforts can secure a brighter future for zebras and their natural habitats.Desktop Version

May 21, 2024Poço Encantado cave, Brazil

In the underwater cave that we see in today"s image, it is possible to observe a truly magical phenomenon. When the sun reaches an exact point in the sky, the sun"s rays illuminate the waters of Poço Encantado, in Chapada Diamantina, creating an intense luminosity that reveals a blue spectacle of dazzling tones.Desktop Version

May 10, 2024Misool, Raja Ampat Islands

Imagine an aquatic sanctuary so pristine that it feels like a secret whispered by the ocean itself. Misool is an island of over 2,000 square kilometres within the Raja Ampat archipelago in Indonesia. The archipelago comprises four main islands, including Misool, Waigeo, Batanta and Salawati. Here, the waves gently caress the powder-white sands, while a kaleidoscope of marine life swims beneath the surface. The coral reefs, known for their biodiversity, are the dreams of many divers. Visitors can also explore the Pulau Misool Nature Reserve, established in 1982, and spot white cuscus, sugar gliders, common spiny bandicoots and other marsupials. As a "no-take zone" with fishing and hunting activities banned and a shark and manta ray sanctuary, Misool offers hope for the future of our oceans. It is an islet where nature"s finest gifts are preserved and cherished.Desktop Version

Mar 20, 2024Peveril Castle, Derbyshire, England

Among the green hills of Derbyshire, UK, stands Peveril Castle on a limestone outcrop. Once a medieval fortress, the ruins now overlook the village of Castleton in High Peak in north-central England. The construction of the fortification began shortly after the Norman conquest in the 11th century, although it wasn"t completed until the 14th century. From the castle, we can enjoy views of Cave Dale—a ravine carved by glacial meltwater over many years. There are several smaller caves or disused lead mines within the dale"s limestone walls. From hidden caverns to towering battlements, this corner of the Peak District is bursting with history and waiting to be explored!Desktop Version

May 11, 2024Indigo bunting

In the vast tapestry of nature"s wonders, few sights are as awe-inspiring as the annual odysseys undertaken by our feathered friends. Among these intrepid travellers is the indigo bunting, a tiny seed-eating songbird with plumage like the twilight sky. They travel thousands of kilometres using the stars to navigate. Typically found in North America, Central America and northern South America, these little creatures are around 11.5 - 15 centimetres long with a wingspan of between 18 - 23 centimetres. The indigo bunting"s musical vocalisations, a delightful series of rapid, jumbled warbles, signal the onset of their breeding season in late April or May. During this time, male buntings establish territories and serenade potential mates with their enchanting songs. So, let"s turn our gazes upward, where the pulse of life flaps with untiring wings and pledge to safeguard the flyways that are essential for ecological balance.Desktop Version

Mar 9, 2024Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, New Mexico

Time is the great transformer, changing the world and all of us. For instance, this New Mexico badland—the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness—was once a lush, tropical forest. Nearly 70 million years ago, instead of twisted terrains and towering spires, this place was home to an array of Late Cretaceous dinosaurs, including armoured ankylosaurs, duck-billed hadrosaurs and mighty Tyrannosaurs. Today, the area is filled with wonders of a different kind, rock formations that look more like sculptures than natural phenomena. Bisti/De-Na-Zin is named after Navajo words: Bisti means "among the adobe formations" and De-Na-Zin comes from nearby rock carvings of a "standing crane." Visitors to the Four Corners region shouldn"t miss out on this otherworldly landscape of shale and sandstone.Desktop Version

Jun 5, 2024Masoala National Park in Madagascar

Pictured here is Madagascar"s Masoala National Park, part of the Rainforests of the Atsinanana UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park, which covers nearly 2,300 square kilometres, is a wildlife haven, harbouring 10 lemur species like red ruffed lemur and aye-aye, birds like red owl and helmet vanga, as well as other species such as Madagascar day geckos and tomato frogs. In times past, illegal rosewood loggers threatened this region, but the strength of unity and conservation has made a stand. So, let"s take inspiration from Masoala and champion the planet that cradles us all. After all, there is no planet B!Desktop Version

Feb 1, 2024Sassnitz lighthouse, Germany

This winter wonderland is Rügen, Germany"s largest island. From the iconic chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park to sandy beaches, the island provides a diverse landscape for nature enthusiasts to revel in. Many artists have come here in the past to give free rein to their creativity. The chalk cliffs inspired one of Germany"s most famous painters—Caspar David Friedrich. Pictured here is Sassnitz lighthouse, a maritime beacon that has guided sailors through the Baltic Sea since its establishment in 1905. Though ice may be covering the shore, the lighthouse still stands, frozen as over, shining a light for ships to sail by.Desktop Version

Sep 15, 2023Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim, Ireland

Glenariff Forest Park, nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, hosts an array of wonders for nature enthusiasts. Famously known as "the Queen of the Glens," the park boasts a wealth of panoramic landscapes, serene riverside strolls and three magnificent waterfalls. Covering over 10 square kilometres, the park is under the care of the Northern Ireland Forest Service. Apart from being a recreational haven, it supports timber production and is a site of conservation for animals such as the red squirrel and Irish hare. Whether you"re exploring the serene Scenic Trail or delving into the heart of the glen on the Waterfall Walk Trail, these journeys promise that you"ll experience some of Northern Ireland"s finest natural splendour.Desktop Version

Jul 20, 2024The Moon

The moon, Earth"s only natural satellite, is a symbol for human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Civilisations have gazed at the sky for millennia, contemplating the origins and mysteries of the moon. The advent of space exploration transformed it into the target of numerous missions. Apollo 11, the pioneering space mission that first landed humans on the moon, was launched on July 16, 1969. It culminated in the astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin taking the first steps on the moon on July 20, 1969. Moon missions have found no signs of life, but they could be a future site for human colonisation. The discovery of water ice, especially in the dark craters at the poles, makes it more hospitable for potential settlers. So, until you can live there, keep dreaming under the same moon that has captivated humanity since time immemorial.Desktop Version

Mar 6, 2024Wahclella Falls, Oregon, USA

At the end of a slot canyon in Oregon, there"s something special awaiting hikers: the Wahclella Falls. Fed by Tanner Creek, a tributary of the Columbia River, these waterfalls were named after a Native American village by members of the Mazama Mountaineering Club. At the end of a foot trail, visitors can see the spectacular two-tiered cascade that crashes down 107 metres into a pool below, which is the perfect place to take a dip and cool off. While you"re swimming, don"t forget to keep an eye out for the water ouzel—also known as the American dipper—a species of bird that calls the falls home. They can be spotted flying along the side of the stream and occasionally diving into the water.Desktop Version

Jan 5, 2025Plum-headed parakeet

Birds come in many shapes and colours, but few are as striking as the plum-headed parakeet, photographed at Shimoga, Karnataka, India, in today"s image. Native to the Indian subcontinent, these birds are found in forests and open woodlands. Their range spans from the Himalayan foothills to Sri Lanka, though they are absent in the arid areas of western India. There have been reports of plum-headed parakeets making their way to places like New York and Florida in the United States, and even parts of the Middle East. Parakeets are often spotted in flocks, chattering melodiously or indulging in their favourite fruits, seeds and blossoms. Their quick, agile flight and playful nature make them a delight in the wild or as beloved pets. Known for their distinctive calls that echo through the air, these birds are also capable of mimicking human speech.Desktop Version

Oct 28, 2023Castilla-La Mancha, Spain

In the town of Consuegra, the echoes of the adventures of Don Quixote—the hero of the Spanish epic novel by Miguel de Cervantes—still linger. This tourist destination in Castilla-La Mancha is famous for a small mountain range, known as Cerro Calderico. The range is crowned with 12 white windmills, perhaps the very same that inspired Cervantes to picture them as an army of giants. With their stone walls and wooden blades, some of these windmills date back to the 16th century. Now, they are living relics of a bygone era when they were used to grind grain.Desktop Version

Jul 24, 2024Swaledale sheep in North Yorkshire, England

Swaledale sheep, found primarily in the Yorkshire Dales in England, are hardy and adaptable grazers. Recognisable by the distinctive white colouring around their nose and eyes and their curled horns, they produce coarse durable wool that is used for outerwear and rugs. Swaledale ewes are exceptional mothers, adept at rearing lambs even in the harshest conditions. This breed has become an emblem of the Yorkshire Dales, with the Swaledale ram proudly serving as the logo for the Yorkshire Dales National Park.Desktop Version

May 7, 2024Duckling in a water meadow, Suffolk, England

Make way as this tiny duckling waddles into the spotlight today, ready to charm us with its playful antics! Ducks, with their vibrant plumage and cheerful quacks, epitomise the idyllic rural scene, but they are equally at home in some urban environments. It"s the arrival of ducklings, however, that truly steals the show. Tiny and fluffy, they follow their mothers dutifully, learning the ways of water with each paddle and peck. These waterfowl play a vital role in keeping aquatic ecosystems balanced by feeding on insects and algae.Desktop Version

Oct 1, 2023Lake Bled, Slovenia

Nestled amidst the Julian Alps is the Lake Bled in Slovenia, inviting you to step into a storybook setting. The star of the show? A tiny island called Bled Island that beckons with the allure of legends and "rowmance." Hop on a traditional pletna boat and make your way to this island sanctuary. These flat-bottomed boats are unique to Bled, and only 23 boats navigate the lake, piloted by skilled oarsmen whose profession has been handed down through generations since 1740. The island is home to the 17th-century Assumption of Mary Church, which hosts a special bell that legend says will make wishes come true! If you look to the shore, you can spot Bled Castle overlooking the lake"s expanse. The castle—one of the oldest in Slovenia—is positioned on a precipice above the town of Bled on the northwestern shore of the lake.Desktop Version

May 27, 2024Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy

Today"s photo shows an evocative sunset that illuminates the town of Sestri Levante. Italy, with stunning colours. This pearl hidden among the coasts of the Riviera Ligure di Levante enchants its visitors with its natural beauty and a historical heritage rooted as far back as Roman times. Situated between Portofino and the Cinque Terre, it offers breathtaking landscapes and beaches such as the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole, the latter linked to the legend of Hans Christian Andersen and his "Little Mermaid." The Punta Manara Natural Park and the ancient medieval streets enrich the experience, making Sestri Levante a destination of rare beauty and historical charm.Desktop Version

Apr 21, 2024Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Let"s take a stroll down Sparks Lane, a gem situated within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA. Established in 1934, the park encompasses over 211,000 hectares of wilderness. The forests, which cover most of the park, are home to 1,500 species of flowering plants, 952 algae, 65 species of mammals and over 240 species of birds, making it an International Biosphere Reserve.Desktop Version

Sep 3, 2023Skyscrapers in Manhattan

Skyscrapers are the towering architectural wonders that punctuate our city skylines and define our urban landscapes. Found in the biggest cities around the world, skyscrapers serve as symbols of progress, ambition and the human pursuit of reaching new heights. Manhattan, the dense, vibrant heart of New York City, boasts a mesmerising skyline adorned with an array of iconic skyscrapers. These structures, like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Chrysler Building, define the city"s architectural and cultural legacy and captivate millions of visitors every year.Desktop Version

May 19, 2024Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy

Perched on the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, Vernazza is a village in Cinque Terre, northwestern Italy. Here, ancient buildings stand along the coastline of the Ligurian Sea, and life is filled with the hustle and bustle of fishermen. Vernazza got its name from the indigenous wine, "vernaccia," meaning "local" or "ours." One of the best-known monuments in the area is Doria Castle, built in the 15th century as a defensive fortress to protect the village from frequent pirate attacks. Thanks to the construction of the Genoa–La Spezia rail line in the 19th century, the village became more accessible by land. The cobblestone streets and absence of cars make it ideal for walking around. While here, you might want to visit the Chapel of Santa Marta and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio. Did you know that this region inspired the 2021 animated movie "Luca"? Vernazza is not just a place to visit; it"s a piece of paradise reserved for those who seek the soul of Italy in its purest form.Desktop Version

Jan 18, 2025Dunes at White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Today"s image features the dazzling beauty of White Sands National Park, New Mexico—a surreal expanse of glistening white gypsum dunes, the largest of its kind on Earth. Spanning more than 55,000 hectares, these ever-shifting dunes rise up to 18 metres tall, creating a landscape not seen in many places. This park isn"t only a natural wonder but a historical treasure, with fossilised human footprints dating back as far as 23,000 years, some of the oldest in North America. White Sands was established as a protected site in 1933 by President Hebert Hoover. What better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in its beauty? Enjoy activities like hiking, sledding down the dunes or taking a scenic drive. Whether for its rich history or jaw-dropping sunsets, White Sands National Park is a wish-list destination that will leave you in awe.Desktop Version

May 18, 2025Pont St-Pierre across the Garonne River, Toulouse, France

As the sun sets over the Garonne River, Toulouse reveals one of its most beautiful panoramas: the Saint-Pierre Bridge and the majestic Dôme de la Grave reflected in the water. This bridge, connecting the two banks of the Ville Rose, was built in 1849, then rebuilt in 1927 and 1987 to adapt to modern needs. Opposite it, the Dôme de la Grave, crowning the former hospital of the same name, dominates the landscape. This 19th-century architectural masterpiece is a symbol of Toulouse, visible from afar thanks to its imposing silhouette. Once dedicated to the sick and the poor, the Hôpital de la Grave bears witness to the city"s medical past, and today it remains a centre of research and innovation.Desktop Version

Mar 8, 2025Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park, Germany

If you think a coastline is just a line where land meets sea, the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park is here to change your mind. This UNESCO World Heritage Site along Germany"s North Sea coast is a place where the tides redraw the landscape twice a day. When the tide retreats, it exposes vast mudflats, creating an ever-changing terrain that"s home to an incredible ecosystem. With an area of 4,410 square kilometres, it is also the largest national park in Germany. It"s a paradise for migratory birds like oystercatchers and red knots, seals and tiny creatures that thrive in the shifting sands. One of the best ways to experience the park is mudflat hiking. Guided tours let you walk across the seabed, squishing through the soft ground while learning about the creatures beneath your feet.Desktop Version

Sep 25, 2023Sea otter, Glacier Bay, Alaska

It"s hard not to smile when you spot a sea otter. Their whiskery faces, busy paws and thick fur give the impression of a stuffed animal that has come to life and taken to the ocean. These heaviest members of the weasel family aren"t just cute though, they also play a vital role in the kelp forest ecosystem, keeping the destructive sea urchin population in check. Unfortunately, their populations, which once numbered as high as 300,000, dropped to fewer than 2,000 after widespread hunting. International protections were put into place in 1911 and numbers have rebounded to around 125,000, but they still remain endangered. While some habitats never recovered, others have emerged in entirely new locations, such as Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. In 1995, five sea otters were spotted in Glacier Bay, and today there are over 8,000 that hunt, play and raise pups in the kelp-abundant waters.Desktop Version

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