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Blue-throated toucanet, Los Quetzales National Park, Costa Rica
Blue-throated toucanet, Los Quetzales National Park, Costa Rica
Tucked away in the highlands of Costa Rica, Los Quetzales National Park offers a kaleidoscope of lush habitats, including one that"s home to the blue-throated toucanet. Measuring 29 to 37 centimetres in length, these non-migratory birds use their dexterous toes to navigate branches, while their distinctive bills deftly forage for fruits, insects and small lizards.Desktop Version
Sequoia National Park, California, USA
Sequoia National Park, California, USA
Sequoia National Park was founded in 1890 in the southern Sierra Nevada to protect one of America"s natural splendors. Named after the giant sequoias that dominate the landscape, the park spans more than 629 square miles and is home to wildlife such as black bears, mule deer and over 200 species of birds, including warblers, vireos and flycatchers. The giant sequoia trees here have been rooted for more than 2,200 years and are among Earth"s oldest living organisms. The park"s renowned General Sherman tree rises to about 84 metres. Named after the American Civil War general William Tecumseh Sherman, it"s not only tall but is also nearly 11 metres wide. Visitors flock to capture moments among these ancient giants, whose reddish-brown, fibrous bark and wide-reaching branches evoke a sense of living history.Desktop Version
Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
In Iceland"s Skaftafell, autumn isn"t just a season—it"s an experience. From glaciers to waterfalls, like the one featured here today, to northern lights, this area in Vatnajökull National Park is a showcase of nature"s raw beauty. Skaftafell, once a thriving farm and now a preservation area, has been formed over thousands of years by the fierce interplay of volcanic fire and glacial water. Here, the glacier Skaftafellsjökull, a branch of Vatnajökull—the second largest ice cap in Europe—stretches out like a frozen river, inviting visitors for guided hikes. Then there"s Svartifoss, another waterfall in the park, fed by glacial meltwater. Surrounded by dark lava columns that resemble a heart from afar, this waterfall inspired the design of Iceland"s National Theatre and the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. Skaftafell"s hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, so there"s something for everyone. While the daylight hours may be shorter in this season, there"s a brightDesktop Version
Sea otter
Sea otter
Sea otters are native to the northern and eastern coasts of the North Pacific Ocean. The otter featured in today"s image was photographed in Prince William Sound, Alaska, United States. Weighing 14-45 kilograms, they"re expert foragers, diving to the seabed to find food. These clever critters are smart as well as cute: they use rocks to crack open shellfish, making them one of the few animals that use tools. There used to be as many as 300,000 in the wild, but they were heavily hunted for almost two centuries, as their dense fur was highly prized. By 1911, it is thought that only around 2,000 were left. Thankfully, an international hunting ban, conservation efforts and reintroduction programs have helped them rebound, and they are now found in about two-thirds of their historic habitat. Despite this success, some populations are still struggling, and sea otters are still an endangered species.Desktop Version
Autumn equinox
Autumn equinox
Autumn is in the air—officially. The September equinox marks the transition from the lush summer to the mellow autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it signals the beginning of spring. The term "equinox" is derived from Latin, meaning "equal night." During this moment, the Earth"s axis is perpendicular to the sun, meaning it rises due east and sets due west, a rare moment of global balance. This balance occurs because the Earth"s axis is neither tilted toward nor away from the sun.Desktop Version
Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Today, we"re raising a stein and saying Prost! Step into the capital of Bavaria, Germany, pictured here, for a celebration like no other. Oktoberfest, dating back to 1810, starts today in Munich. This grand event is a vibrant blend of Bavarian culture, tradition and, of course, beer.Desktop Version
Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, USA
Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, USA
Welcome to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, United States. This is a place where history and nature intertwine. This secluded island, reachable only by ferry or small plane, offers 16 miles of untouched beaches and a wealth of stories. The Ocracoke Lighthouse, seen in today"s image, stands out as a notable landmark. The lighthouse celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2023, making it the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in North Carolina. It boasts an 8,000-candlepower light, which can be seen up to 14 miles offshore.Desktop Version
International Talk Like a Pirate Day
International Talk Like a Pirate Day
Ahoy, mateys, it is International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Today, landlubbers and seafarers alike put on their tricorn hats and hoist the Jolly Roger. The origin of this holiday goes back to a 1995 joke between two friends, John Baur and Mark Summers. During a racquetball game, one of them exclaimed "Aaarrr!" in response to an injury, and the concept of a day dedicated to pirate lingo was born. Initially an inside joke, Talk Like a Pirate Day gained popularity after the duo shared the idea with humourist Dave Barry in 2002, who promoted it in his syndicated column. Since then, it"s become a day of fun and parodic celebration—people don pirate costumes, engage in pirate-themed activities, like the kid on the ship in today"s image, and embrace mock pirate language. Whether ye be a seasoned buccaneer or a greenhorn, today be for all to enjoy. So, batten down the hatches, set sail and remember: on this day, everyone can be a pirate.Desktop Version
Gujō Hachiman Castle, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
Gujō Hachiman Castle, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
In Japan"s Gifu Prefecture, Gujō Hachiman Castle stands majestically on Hachiman Mountain. Originally constructed in 1559, this castle has witnessed centuries of Japanese history, including the rise and fall of powerful clans. It was torn down during the tumultuous Meiji Restoration—the period that marked the return of imperial power in the country— but was rebuilt in 1933. The castle seen in today"s image is a unique wooden reconstruction, a rarity among Japan"s often concrete-rebuilt castles. This five-story structure, which includes a museum, offers a glimpse into feudal Japan while providing stunning views of the valley below. In addition to the castle, the city of Gujō is also famous for hosting the Gujō Odori, one of Japan"s oldest dance festivals. Held annually from mid-July to early September, the festival sees locals and tourists alike dancing through the night in the castle town, preserving a tradition that dates back more than 400 years.Desktop Version
Mid-Autumn Festival
Mid-Autumn Festival
For many Asian cultures, the point at which the moon reaches its fullest during the harvest season marks the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival. It"s traditionally observed on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. Dating back more than 3,000 years to China"s Shang Dynasty, this festival celebrates moon watching and the end of the harvest season. During the festivities, mooncakes—round delicacies filled with sweet bean paste, salted egg yolks or lotus seeds—are often shared among friends and family. Lanterns of different shapes, sizes and hues, symbolising good fortune, illuminate the night. Asian communities across the world come together to showcase a mélange of cultural performances, heartfelt renditions of the Moon Festival"s poetic tales.Desktop Version
Wallabies, Australia
Wallabies, Australia
Amid the hues of dawn, captured in today"s image, two wallabies stand alert in a field near the Adelaide River in Australia. These marsupials, smaller cousins of the kangaroo, are native to Australia and New Guinea. Wallabies have around 30 different species, including brush wallabies, rock-wallabies, hare-wallabies, nail-tail wallabies and swamp wallabies. These agile and sprightly mammals are herbivores, nibbling on grasses, leaves and fruits. With a height of 30 to 104 centimetres, wallabies have strong hind legs that help them take impressive leaps and serve as a defence against predators. During mating season, male wallabies engage in boxing bouts to show dominance in an attempt to grab females" attention. Social creatures, wallabies form small groups called "mobs," which provide safety and mutual grooming. Their playgrounds are forests that echo with the thudding of their hops as they navigate their home range with ease.Desktop Version
Stockholm Public Library, Sweden
Stockholm Public Library, Sweden
If you"re ever in Sweden and looking for a quiet place to get "shelved," the Stockholm Public Library, or "Stadsbiblioteket" as it is known to locals, is your spot. Opened in 1928, this library is not just a place to borrow books; it"s a cultural icon and an architectural marvel. Here, more than 2 million volumes wait to unfold stories in over 100 languages. Designed by architect Erik Gunnar Asplund in the 1920s, this Nordic Classicist composition features the geometry of a cylinder intersecting a cubic base. Its accessible façade belies a treasure trove within a 360-degree rotunda, inviting even the casual reader into a literal circle of knowledge.Desktop Version
Last Night of the Proms
Last Night of the Proms
If you"ve ever found yourself dreaming of a night packed with classical music, patriotic fervour and the occasional flag-waving, then the Last Night of the Proms, happening today, is for you. This annual event, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, pictured here, is the grand finale of the BBC Proms season. The Proms, short for "Promenade Concerts," began in 1895 with the aim of making classical music accessible to everyone. It started with just a few concerts, but it has grown into a summer-long festival featuring hundreds of performances from July to September. The Last Night typically kicks off with a selection of classical favourites performed by top orchestras and soloists. Expect the second half of the evening to get properly patriotic, with anthems like "Land of Hope and Glory" and "Rule, Britannia!," inspiring a joyous sing-along. So, put on your best concert attire or a flag cape and get ready to join in the fun!Desktop Version
Point Reyes National Seashore, California, USA
Point Reyes National Seashore, California, USA
Welcome to Point Reyes National Seashore, where the sky meets the earth. This stunning 71,028-acre (28,744-hectare) coastal haven on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, pictured in today"s images, is a gem of the Californian coastline in the United States, boasting breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Filled with scenic trails that wind through lush forests and along rugged cliffs, Point Reyes has much to offer its visitors.Desktop Version
World Dolphin Day
World Dolphin Day
Grab your flippers—it"s World Dolphin Day. Today, people across the world celebrate, raise awareness and promote the conservation of these aquatic mammals. Dolphins are highly intelligent and can be found all over the world in oceans, rivers and estuaries. Despite being able to exist in an array of environments and water temperatures, dolphins are threatened by a variety of human activities, such as hunting, pollution and fishing. Hunting in particular led to the creation of World Dolphin Day in 2022 by Sea Shepherd Global, an international marine conservation group.Desktop Version
Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island, Chile
Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island, Chile
Welcome to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, Chile—one of the world"s most remote and enchanting paradises. Famous for its iconic moai statues, this stunning island is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Experts are divided on the timeline of the Polynesians" arrival, though many researchers suggest that it occurred around the 8th century. Take in the mesmerising sunrise featured in today"s image and explore the striking volcanic craters and lush, grassy plains where the imposing statues stand. The World Heritage property of Easter Island spans more than 17,000 acres (6,880 hectares), including four nearby islets.Desktop Version
Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon, Portugal
Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon, Portugal
Today"s image features the Vasco da Gama Bridge in Portugal, which looks like a sleek line cutting through Lisbon"s skyline. Up close, it is a cable-stayed bridge with viaducts, stretching across the Tagus River in Parque das Nações, a civil parish in Lisbon. The second longest bridge in Europe, it also holds the title of being the longest in the European Union. Built to ease the traffic jam on Lisbon"s 25 de Abril Bridge and make travel smoother between the north and south of Portugal, the construction of the Vasco da Gama Bridge began in February 1995. It is earthquake-resistant, designed to absorb shifting during a quake. Since its deck is not fixed to the pylons, it can move both lengthwise and sideways. Inaugurated on March 29, 1998, the bridge"s opening was perfectly timed for Expo 98, the World"s Fair celebrating the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama"s historic sea route discovery from Europe to India.Desktop Version
Iguazu Falls at the border of Argentina and Brazil
Iguazu Falls at the border of Argentina and Brazil
Want to witness falls so grand that they make Niagara look modest? Let"s explore Iguazu Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world. The name "Iguazu" comes from words in the regional languages Guarani or Tupi, which mean "big water." These series of waterfalls are formed by the Iguazu River, on the border between Argentina"s Misiones province and Brazil"s Paraná state. They feature a striking staircase formation, with a two-step cascade created by three layers of basalt.Desktop Version
Great North Run
Great North Run
Today, the streets of Newcastle will transform into a sea of runners, joggers and walkers all headed in one direction—south. The Great North Run, the world"s largest half marathon, is back. Founded in 1981 by former Olympic 10,000-metre bronze medallist Brendan Foster, this annual event started with humble beginnings. Just over 12,000 runners took part in the inaugural race, but it quickly grew into a phenomenon. Today, the race attracts around 60,000 participants each year, from elite athletes to charity fundraisers dressed as giant bananas.Desktop Version
Annas hummingbird
Annas hummingbird
Hummingbirds are known for their incredible speed; they can flap their wings up to 80 times per second, allowing them to hover in place and even fly backward. Emily Dickinson aptly describes their swift movement: "A Route of Evanescence / With a revolving Wheel—." Their high metabolism requires them to eat constantly, so they spend their days flitting from flower to flower, sipping nectar and catching insects. Fun fact: these birds can remember every flower they"ve visited and how long it will take a flower to refill with nectar.Desktop Version
Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland, UK
Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland, UK
Ever wondered what it"s like to stroll through a storybook? Welcome to Glenariff Forest Park in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This park spans nearly 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of woodland, waterfalls and wonder, and it boasts several walking trails, each offering its own unique perspective of the landscape. The most popular is the Waterfall Walkway, a 3-mile trail that passes through a National Nature Reserve and features the Ess-na-Crub and Ess-na-Larach waterfalls. Glenariff is home to a rich diversity of wildlife including red squirrels, pine martens and badgers. Birdwatchers will be delighted by willow warblers, chiffchaffs and kingfishers. The flora is just as impressive, with trees such as the ancient beech, pictured here, oak, birch and rowan creating a lush canopy. So, whenever you choose to visit, Glenariff is sure to leave you feeling "re-leafed" and rejuvenated.Desktop Version
2024 Toronto International Film Festival
2024 Toronto International Film Festival
Cinema aficionados, assemble. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) gears up to dazzle with its 49th edition in Toronto, Canada, the city seen in today"s image. Since its establishment in 1976, the TIFF has become one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world. The event draws a diverse tapestry of attendees, from seasoned directors to rising stars and eager cinephiles. The festival has seen the premieres of critically acclaimed films over the years, including "The Fabelmans" and "Black Swan."Desktop Version
Dusky eagle-owls, Pakistan
Dusky eagle-owls, Pakistan
As daylight fades, dusky eagle-owls, the silent hunters seen in today"s image, emerge from their nests. These primarily nocturnal raptors were photographed in Pakistan but can also be found in the forests and scrublands across South and Southeast Asia. An impressive wingspan of 38–43 centimetres, piercing yellow eyes and exceptional hearing help them to catch small mammals and birds with precision in dim light. Measuring up to 30 centimetres tall, these feathered predators can also be spotted hunting in the daytime when the weather is cloudy. They often live in the abandoned nests of other birds or in natural crevices. Dusky eagle-owls breed in December and January, usually rearing their young in the safety of tall trees or cliff ledges. Nature lovers and bird watchers are captivated by their solemn gaze and elegant stature.Desktop Version
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington, USA
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington, USA
Sometimes it"s nice to get away. Thanks to environmentalist Howard Zahniser, Americans can do that in one of the country"s many wildernesses—areas sheltered from human activities. Pictured in today"s image, Crystal Lake is one such protected area. Located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington, the Enchantments has more than 700 lakes and ponds and some of the best rock climbing in the Western United States. It"s also home to mountain goats, ptarmigan, pikas and numerous types of alpine flowers. If you want to see Alpine Lakes Wilderness yourself, however, be prepared to wait. Few permits are granted for day hikes, and of the 40,000 people who entered last year"s lottery for overnight permits, only 2,558 received one.Desktop Version
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine, USA
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine, USA
Welcome to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in the United States, where dense woodlands and pristine waterways stretch out as far as the eye can see. Covering nearly 87,500 acres (35,410 hectares), this monument was established in 2016. The region played a significant role in Maine"s logging industry for more than 100 years, but towards the end of the 19th century, this activity began to decline. Efforts to preserve the landscape we see here today were spearheaded by philanthropist Roxanne Quimby. She and her foundation started purchasing land near Baxter State Park in 2001 and donated it to the US federal government in 2016, ensuring its preservation for future generations.Desktop Version