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Dec 12, 2023Red poinsettia

During the holiday season, poinsettias are often seen adorning homes and festive displays, serving as symbols of goodwill and community spirit. Named after the American ambassador Joel Poinsett, who introduced it to North America in the 19th century, the poinsettia"s association with Christmas has made it a cherished symbol of warmth and celebration. Poinsettias can be found in nature from Mexico to Guatemala, and the ancestors of the modern, commercially available version have been traced to the Mexican state of Guerrero. The crimson-leaved plant was used by the Aztecs as a red dye and as a fever-reducing medicine.Desktop Version

Oct 13, 2023Vieste, Apulia, Italy

Vieste is a picturesque town on the eastern coast of Italy. With origins dating back thousands of years, its history is a tapestry woven by various civilisations, including the Normans, Byzantines and Romans. The town"s historic center is filled with charming narrow streets, ancient architecture, and a medieval Swabian castle overlooking the Adriatic Sea. What truly captivates visitors, however, is Vieste"s stunning natural landscape, renowned for dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. In fact, Vieste"s waters are so clear that it has been awarded Blue Flag certification for its water quality. The famous Pizzomunno rock formation has legends associated with it, which are often variations of the same story about a young man named Pizzomunno and his lover Cristalda. With its blend of history, natural wonders and leisure pursuits, Vieste remains a captivating destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.Desktop Version

Mar 4, 2024Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Greetings from tropical Costa Rica! The conical Arenal Volcano rises to an impressive height of 1,657 metres, standing tall above the surrounding rainforest and Lake Arenal, the largest lake in the country. The sleepy mountain roared to life in a massive 1968 eruption that threw rocks for close to a kilometre. The last significant volcanic activity there took place in 2010, and the once lava-lit peak is currently dormant. With over 500 species of birds, Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-visit location for birdwatchers. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including red brocket deer, pumas, white-faced monkeys, orchids, heliconias and ferns. Arenal makes for an imposing and beautiful sight, towering over the tropical trees.Desktop Version

Feb 19, 2024Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain

Sun-kissed beaches, colourful buildings, clear waters and rich history—there"s something special going on in the city of Puerto de la Cruz. Located on Tenerife, the largest of Spain"s Canary Islands, it stared out as a fishing village. The city"s centre is full of charming streets and historical buildings. For those seeking sun, sea and sand, Playa Jardín is the city"s answer. This black volcanic sand beach, designed by the renowned architect César Manrique, offers lush gardens, unique sculptures and views of the world"s third tallest volcano, Mount Teide. Other landmarks here include Lago Martiánez, a complex of seawater pools offering a scenic retreat, and Loro Parque, a world-famous zoo and conservation centre. So, take a moment, savour the image and let your imagination set sail to this lively port town!Desktop Version

Mar 11, 2024Sleeping koala

This sleepy koala may inspire you to catch some Z"s. These adorable Australian marsupials can sleep up to 20 hours a day, which helps them conserve the little energy they get from their eucalyptus-based diet. Koalas move slowly when awake, spend most of their time tucked into nooks in trees, and have a lower body temperature than other animals of their size. The koala is an arboreal herbivorous marsupial, it is uniquely adapted to its native habitat. Typically found in coastal areas of Australia"s eastern and southern regions, including Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, the koala"s stout, tailless body and distinctive features, such as its large head with round, fluffy ears and dark nose, make it easily recognisable.Desktop Version

Dec 23, 2024Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Welcome to Sarnath, home of the celebrated marvel of Buddhism—Dhamek Stupa, featured in today"s image. This structure was built on the very spot where Buddha shared his first-ever sermon with his first five disciples. Originally built in 500 CE to replace an earlier monument commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, it holds a legacy as rich as its carvings. With a solid base of 28 metres in diameter and a towering height of 43.6 metres, it merges stone and brick in a design that"s both massive and intricate. The lower stonework boasts delicate floral carvings from the Gupta era, while its walls feature finely detailed depictions of humans, birds and inscriptions in the ancient Brahmi script. Although the stupa has been expanded six times over the centuries, the upper section remains unfinished. Standing before it, one can"t help but marvel at the stories it holds.Desktop Version

Nov 1, 2023Haut-Barr Castle, Vosges

Haut-Barr Castle is a medieval fortress that looms at an altitude of 450 metres, in northern Alsace. Built in 1170, it underwent significant transformations and restorations over the centuries. Its construction was initiated by the bishops of Strasbourg with the purpose of overseeing the Zorn Valley and the Alsace plain, earning it the evocative nickname "the eye of Alsace." On a clear day, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral. The castle, constructed on three rocks, is connected by a bridge, known as the "Devil"s Bridge". Legend has it that its construction is attributed to the devil as it would have been impossible for anyone else to build such a sturdy bridge.Desktop Version

Feb 2, 2024Alpine Marmot

Curious about how long this winter will last? The Alpine marmot seen here today, has its own winter tradition of stocking up on food to prepare for a long hibernation. Primarily found in mountainous regions of central and southern Europe, these robust rodents have a stocky build, short legs and a blunt snout. They inhabit alpine meadows and rocky areas, preferring elevations between 1,200 to 3,200 metres. They feed on various vegetation, including grasses, herbs and flowers, along with insects, spiders and worms. Despite their current non-endangered status, the species is vulnerable, particularly in regions like the Jura Mountains and Germany where they are regularly hunted.Desktop Version

‘Spotting’ deer in the wild

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Standing on glass 900+ feet in the air

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Jan 20, 2024Macaroni penguins

Let"s flap our flippers and take a dive into the world of these amazing creatures! 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

In the tropics, land greets sea warmly

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Jun 19, 2024Reticulated giraffe mother greeting calf in Kenya

Featured here are reticulated giraffes, found mostly in Kenya, but also in parts of Somalia and Ethiopia. Giraffes have fascinated travellers from around the world for a long time. These animals were viewed as symbols of status and treasured as pets among royalty. Their coats feature large, polygonal-shaped spots that extend onto the lower legs, tail and face. Unfortunately, only around 16,000 reticulated giraffes remain in the wild, less than half of the approximately 36,000 recorded in the 1980s. Nevertheless, recent years have observed a promising trend in northern Kenya, where populations are rebounding thanks to places like the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. So, let"s pledge to protect these creatures and their habitats.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 102 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

An oasis in the desert

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Jan 21, 2024Eurasian red squirrel

Have you ever been captivated by a squirrel crossing your path? If so, you"re not alone! Today"s image showcases the charming Eurasian red squirrel, whose striking reddish-brown coat, white underbelly and bushy tail are a familiar sight in several countries. These squirrels are not only exceptional jumpers—capable of leaping up to 1.8 metres in one jump—they can even swim to search for food or migrate. If you spot a fuzzy-tailed squirrel friend frolicking in your backyard, they might appreciate some feeding stations stocked with a variety of treats such as raspberries or crab apples.Desktop Version

Feb 18, 2024Sperm whale pod surfacing

Ahoy there, giants of the sea! The planet"s 92 whale species are split between baleen whales and toothed whales. Baleen whales use bristle-like mouth parts to filter krill from the water. The sperm whales pictured here, like the other 76 toothed species, use cone-shaped teeth to attack their prey. Unlike baleen whales, they hunt and navigate using echolocation, a method that uses sound to detect the things around them. Sperm whales also happen to have the largest brain of any animal on Earth! A whale"s large brain-to-body mass ratio means that their intelligence is no fluke.Desktop Version

Dec 15, 2024Lake Misurina, Dolomites, Italy

You might have heard of a pool of tears, but have you ever heard of a lake of tears? Well, legend has it that Lake Misurina, pictured here, in Italy"s Dolomites, was born from the sorrow of a giant named Sorapis. At more than 1,700 metres above sea level, it is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, with its perimeter stretching more than two kilometres. The area around the lake is known for its beneficial climate, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding hotels provide a perfect getaway for up to 500 visitors. The lake played a role in the 1956 Winter Olympics, where it hosted speed skating events on natural ice, and it has even been immortalised in a pop song by singer Claudio Baglioni.Desktop Version

Mar 16, 2024Giant panda eating bamboo

Do you like scrolling through lighthearted videos of giant pandas wobbling around? These bamboo-munching creatures, with their distinctive black and white coats and playful demeanour, have captivated hearts for years. Despite being classified within the order Carnivora, giant pandas have a predominantly herbivorous diet, with bamboo shoots and leaves constituting over 99% of their food intake. In captivity, their diet may include other items such as honey, yams, eggs, fish, shrub leaves, bananas or oranges with food tailored to their nutritional needs. Pandas were initially believed to adhere to a crepuscular pattern of activity, being active at dawn and dusk. However, recent studies suggest that pandas may exhibit peaks in the morning, afternoon and even at midnight. In 1961, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) adopted the animal as its iconic logo.Desktop Version

A plant for all occasions

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Jan 6, 2024A male chaffinch in a crab apple tree

Crab Apple trees are known for their beauty and occasional harvests of small, vibrant fruits. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they contribute to biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as bees, fostering a healthy ecosystem. While their fruits are generally smaller and more tart than those of regular apples, some varieties are cultivated for culinary purposes, including jams and jellies. Gardeners and landscapers often appreciate their versatility and use them to enhance the visual appeal of outdoor environments. Whether as stand-alone specimens or part of larger garden designs, these bring a delightful blend of natural beauty and ecological benefits to diverse settings.Desktop Version

Switzerland of India

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A magnificent place of worship

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Nov 5, 2024Ranakpur Jain temple, Ranakpur, Rajasthan

Step into the world of intricate artistry at the sacred site of Ranakpur Jain temple, Rajasthan. Also known as Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara, because of the four faces temple design, this stunning Śvētāmbara Jain temple is dedicated to Tirthankara Rishabhanatha, also known as Ādinātha. This architectural marvel was commissioned by Darna Shah, a local Jain businessman, in the 15th century after he experienced a divine vision. The temple is crafted in the form of the Nalini-Gulma Vimana—a heavenly vehicle that he envisioned in his dreams. Built in the Māru-Gurjara architectural style, the temple houses a garbhagriha, the innermost sanctuary, where the main Chaumukha Adinatha idol is enshrined.Desktop Version

Monsoon awakens the sleeping mountains

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