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Apr 21, 2025Joshua trees under the Milky Way, California, United States

Today"s image features a desert icon—the Joshua tree—native to the Mojave Desert in the southwestern United States. This remarkable tree grows rapidly during its first ten years, averaging about 7 centimetres per year. After that, its growth slows down to around 4 centimetres per year and over its lifespan, it can reach up to 15 metres. Their long, messy and rough appearance resembles the look of a beard, adding to the tree"s unique and rugged charm.Desktop Version

Feb 3, 2024Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy

Amid the canals of Venice is the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica is a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who was considered to be the protector of the Republic of Venice. Designed by Baldassare Longhena, who"s magnificent basilica is characterised by its scrolls supporting the dome, incorporates beautiful effects and make it one of the most significant structures representing early Italian Baroque architecture. However, what truly captures the essence of Venice is the colours, the interplay of light and shadows and the shimmering reflections seen throughout the streets and canals. These elements resonate in all forms of expression originating from this captivating city.Desktop Version

Feb 27, 2025Polar bear cub, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

Polar bears are native to the Arctic and can be found in Alaska, Russia, Greenland and Svalbard. They"re also found in Canada—like the cub in today"s image, photographed in Churchill, Manitoba. Polar bears spend over half of their time hunting for seals on the sea ice, although they usually catch just one or two for every 10 that they try to catch. Their reliance on sea ice for hunting means that they are highly vulnerable to climate change. Their fur isn"t truly white; it"s translucent, reflecting visible light and allowing them to blend seamlessly into their snowy environment. Sea ice is rapidly disappearing as the planet heats up, and polar bears are at risk of malnutrition and starvation as their hunting grounds vanish. Shrinking ice sheets also mean that these bears have to swim farther to find food, which depletes their energy reserves. Protecting polar bears means protecting their home—let"s work together to slow the effects of climate change and safeguard their future.Desktop Version

Nov 25, 2023Toledo, Spain

Toledo, a city situated in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain, is known for its unique geography. Positioned on a raised mass of land, the city is embraced by the Tagus River on three sides. This splendid city was called "The City of Three Cultures" during the Middle Ages, where Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities coexisted harmoniously. Toledo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and its historical core is packed with mosques, synagogues and an impressive Gothic cathedral. The city has a strong Moorish cultural influence, left over from their arrival around the eighth century. The city was once home to the painter El Greco in the 16th century. He had an impact on Toledo, creating some of his most significant works, like the Assumption of the Virgin, which is considered one of his greatest masterpieces. Before the 16th century, Toledo"s sword-making industry was known as one of Europe"s finest.Desktop Version

Apr 14, 2024Bowling Ball Beach, California, USA

Welcome to nature"s bowling alley. Bowling Ball Beach on the Mendocino Coast in California, USA, is named after the striking rock formations strewn across the shore. These sandstone balls—a phenomenon known as concretions—formed over millions of years as sedimentary layers built up around a central core of sand and stone held together by mineral cements. Erosion gradually wore away the outer layers to expose the spherical shapes we see today. This created a fascinating spectacle that only appears at low tide. Concretions are rare, and there has been plenty of wild speculation about where they come from, with some believing them to be extraterrestrial debris while others wondering if they are dinosaur fossils. The answer, however, is quite simple: it is the forces of nature at play.Desktop Version

Dec 13, 2023Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway

Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people have lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional houses—called rorbu—are built on poles over water and add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version

Dec 21, 2023Ljubljana, Slovenia

What a lovely city! The Slavic word "ljub" means "to love", and it serves as the prefix to Slovenia"s capital city, Ljubljana, and the Ljubljunica River that runs through it. This relatively small capital, with a population just under 300,000, was established on a trade route connecting the northern Adriatic Sea and the Danube region. To the south of the city lies the Ljubljana Marsh, the largest marsh in the country, covering 422 square kilometres. While modern buildings have cropped up on the city"s periphery, the core of town preserves its historic structures, which have ancient Roman and medieval elements. Examples include Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge and the historic Old Town. Keep an eye out while you stroll around, you might encounter the city"s symbol, the Ljubljana Dragon.Desktop Version

Jan 13, 2024Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA

Tourists often equate Hawaii with relaxation, but one of its most well-known attractions—the Road to Hana—might have you gripping a steering wheel tightly. Stretching for 103 kilometres along the northern coast of Maui from Kahului to the quiet town of Hana, the highway has over 600 curves and numerous one-lane bridges. The drive takes focus, so don"t forget to stop and relax at the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Some highlights along the route include the Waikamoi Ridge Trail, the easily accessible Twin Falls and the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park.Desktop Version

Jan 23, 2024Maldives

With serene sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, the island country of the Maldives is located to the southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The archipelago is renowned for its seafood, lagoons and countless coconut palms. These 1,200 islands are made up of a chain of 26 atolls. Atolls are islands in the shape of rings with coral rims and lagoons in their centre. The Maldives is also home to the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, which was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in June 2011. Visitors go there to spot manta rays and whale sharks and can enjoy sustainable water activities like scuba diving and surfing.Desktop Version

Oct 12, 2023Palouse region, Idaho, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Inland Northwest, the Palouse region of Idaho in the United States is a picturesque tapestry of rolling hills and fertile farmlands. This unique and stunning landscape, often described as America"s Tuscany, showcases undulating wheat and canola fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a patchwork quilt of vibrant greens and golds in the summer months.Desktop Version

Sep 10, 2023Walruses in Svalbard, Norway

Walruses are magnificent marine mammals that inhabit the cold Arctic seas. These impressive creatures, scientifically known as Odobenus rosmarus, are known for their huge size, with adult males weighing up to 1,500 kilograms and measuring about 3.6 metres in length. Their distinctive tusks, which are elongated canine teeth, can reach lengths of up to 1 metre and are utilised for various tasks such as aiding in hauling themselves onto floating ice, puncturing breathing holes in the ice and self-defence. These social animals often gather in large groups, a behaviour known as "haulouts," where they rest, socialise and nurse their young. Conservation efforts are crucial for walrus populations, as they are threatened by climate change and habitat loss due to diminishing Arctic ice.Desktop Version

Feb 2, 2024Alpine marmot

Curious to know more about this cute creature? The Alpine marmot seen here today is a close relative of ground squirrels and prairie dogs and belongs to the squirrel family. They store plant stems in their burrows as cosy bedding to prepare for their hibernation. This helps them endure the weather conditions and scarcity of food that often occur during winter. They engage in communication with one another through a range of auditory signals, including whistles, screams and teeth chattering. Did you know - Groundhog burrows have latrine chambers, located far away from the sleeping and eating areas of the burrow to keep them clean and hygienic? Fascinating, isn"t it?Desktop Version

Mar 15, 2024Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, USA

The first day of spring may be just days away, but the season"s wildflowers at California"s largest state park—Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—are already here to say hello! Every spring, this barren desert floor undergoes a dramatic makeover. Flowers like heliotrope, brittlebush and desert dandelion burst into a riot of bloom, creating a spectacle of colour. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, this park has a lot to offer—from the mountains of the Peninsular Ranges and cactus-studded hills to slot canyons, badlands and natural palm oases. In addition, as a designated International Dark Sky Park, it is an exceptional spot for stargazing. Beyond its natural wonders, the park, spanning over 242,810 hectares, is also home to a rich cultural and historical legacy, such as ancient pictographs or rock paintings.Desktop Version

Nov 14, 2023Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

This scenic view is of Lake Tekapo on the South Island of New Zealand. The lake undergoes a remarkable transformation each year from mid-November to December, when vibrant Russell lupines burst into colour, elevating the natural beauty to new heights. The plants" blooming heads, made up of pea-like flowers, can reach up to 150 centimetres. While photographers and nature lovers come to witness the varied hues of purple, blue and yellow lupins spread wide across Lake Tekapo, the Russell lupines have a somewhat controversial story. These invasive, exotic plants grow in dense stands, boxing out other flora. While these plants might be appealing to tourists, they can create a negative imbalance in the region"s ecosystem.Desktop Version

Mar 13, 2025Gran Paradiso National Park, Piedmont, Italy

In the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, straddling Piedmont and Valle d"Aosta, an alpine landscape of rare beauty is revealed, where snow-capped peaks are reflected in crystal-clear lakes. This corner of paradise invites visitors to get lost in its natural wonders, offering a spectacle that seems to come out of a dream. The majestic and imposing mountains stand as silent guardians, while the lakes, with their clear and calm waters, reflect the blue sky and the surrounding peaks.Desktop Version

Jul 14, 2024La Geria wine region, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

Surrounded by rugged, dark-hued landscapes, La Geria wine region stands as a viticultural marvel. Most of the island of Lanzarote has treeless terrain covered with black-grey soil. A series of volcanic eruptions in the past, as recently as the 1700s, led to the unique colouration, and by 1775, farmers started growing crops in the new layer of nutrient-rich soil. This soil absorbs water and retains moisture for a longer period, and the ash keeps the temperature of the soil favourable for the growing grapes. The rows of holes surrounded by stones you see in our image were dug to protect young plants. Today, La Geria stands as a testament to innovation, where traditional cultivation counters arid conditions. A wine connoisseur would be privileged to taste the story of this island through sips of La Geria"s fine wine, fermented from Malvasia grapes.Desktop Version

Oct 26, 2023Schönbrunn Palace Park, Vienna, Austria

In 1743, Empress Maria Theresa decided to lavishly remodel the Schönbrunn palace, Austria, which served as the cherished residence of the Habsburg emperors until 1918. Complemented by its lush gardens, which house the world"s oldest existing public zoo, Schönbrunn is a true gem of the Baroque era. Both the splendid buildings and the meticulously manicured gardens are now under the ownership of the Austrian government. This pastoral path at the park, graced by a canopy of trees, offers an escape from the bustling city. So, take a leisurely stroll and let the charm of this enchanting estate transport you to centuries past.Desktop Version

Dec 31, 2024Fireworks over Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada

New Year"s Eve, also known as Old Year"s Day, is celebrated around the world with revelry, fireworks and for some, religious and cultural observances. Many countries celebrate with foods symbolic of prosperity, long life and good fortune for the coming year, and many people sing Scottish folk song "Auld Lang Syne" at the stroke of midnight to remember old friends and past experiences. The new year is often personified as a baby, a tradition that dates back to ancient Greeks, often paired with an old man who represents the previous year.Desktop Version

Jan 20, 2024Macaroni penguins

How many kinds of penguins can you name? Today"s snapshot features agile macaroni penguins swimming in the plankton-rich waters of the Drake Passage in Chile. These charming creatures are just one of 18 different species of penguin found in the Southern Hemisphere and can be recognised by their peculiar amber crests and prominent orange beak. Macaroni penguins gather in foraging groups, but males can be aggressive towards each other. To show passivity and avoid a fight, individuals often ease through colonies with their heads tucked down to their chests. Despite being beloved by us humans, penguins are threatened by reduced food availability, errant fishing nets and the profound impact of climate change on their habitat, sea ice.Desktop Version

Mar 7, 2024Roques de Benet, Catalonia, Spain

Jutting into the sky above Els Ports Natural Park, the Roques de Benet are a cluster of rock formations in the Ports de Tortosa Beseit region of Catalonia, Spain. The tallest peak out of this cluster stands at an elevation of 1,015 metres above sea level. Overlooking the Ebro delta, the peak offers views of streams and pine forests, with trails that lead into the mountains. The word Benet comes from Arabic, hinting at the varied past that the area has had, including both Arabic and Christian settlers. These days, the park is home to a variety of fauna, from ibex and otters, to vultures and eagles. Animals aren"t the only inhabitants of the area. The villages nestled at the base of this massif have a sense of community and still maintain their shared traditions, such as the age-old craft of using vegetable fibres to create baskets and kitchen utensils.Desktop Version

Nov 26, 2023Fallow deer in Bradgate Park, England

Fallow deer are known for their striking coat, which changes colour with the seasons and is often adorned with white spots in the summer. During the autumn rutting season, males spar with each other to establish their dominance. These male deer can be spotted by their palmate antlers, which have a broad, flattened surface. Fallow deer are native to Europe and parts of Asia, and are a common sight in Leicestershire, England, particularly in Bradgate Park. This 340-hectare park not only offers a sanctuary for these animals, but also features beautiful landscapes, woodlands and the Beacon Hill Tower, which offers panoramic views of the area.Desktop Version

Mar 1, 2025Aurora borealis over Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, Canada

Some places feel almost untouched by time. In Canada, one such place sits deep in Jasper National Park, Alberta, where the 22-kilometre-long, winding Maligne Lake cuts through the mountains. It is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, where towering peaks, glacial waters and endless sky come together.Desktop Version

Dec 4, 2023Cheetah and her cubs

In the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, where the African savanna stretches as far as the eye can see, cheetahs reign as the sprinting champions of the wildlife kingdom with measured speeds up to 129 kilometres per hour. Cheetahs, with their sleek bodies and black spots, thrive in this vast expanse, alertly watching for signs of prey. The reserve is known for its exceptional East African cheetah population. Sadly, habitat loss and human influence threaten their survival; hence, conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these incredible animals. Let"s appreciate the beauty and importance of not just these wild cats, but all wildlife that shares the world with us.Desktop Version

Dec 6, 2024Helsinki, Finland

Welcome to the Old Town in Helsinki—the capital and largest city of Finland. Often referred to as the "Daughter of the Baltic" or the "Pearl of the Baltic," this city sits gracefully at the tip of a peninsula, surrounded by 315 islands. Often regarded as Finland"s only metropolis, this region is the northernmost metropolitan area in the world with a population exceeding one million.Desktop Version

Dec 14, 2023Boreal owl

In North America"s coniferous forests lives a tiny bird of prey—the boreal owl. The small, brown and white flecked raptor is shy and evasive around humans, keeping it well hidden from our view. Despite its compact size, it is a formidable hunter, feeding on small mammals, voles and birds. With dark plumage and expressive eyes, it strikes a captivating figure in the moonlit canopy, intriguing bird enthusiasts and researchers. Any birder would be fortunate to spot one during their visit to Saskatchewan, Canada.Desktop Version

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