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Feb 10, 2025Art Installation of umbrellas, London, England

Today"s image features one of the simplest yet most essential inventions in human history: the umbrella, or parasol. Over 4,000 years ago, in ancient Egypt, Assyria and China, these foldable canopies were first used to shield people from the sun. It wasn"t until the 17th century that the umbrella, as we know it today, gained popularity in Europe, initially as a luxury item primarily for women. Fast-forward a few centuries and these weather shields have become a staple in pop culture, too. Remember Mary Poppins with her iconic umbrella that helped her fly, or Rihanna"s hit song "Umbrella"?Desktop Version

Aug 8, 2024Spotted owlet, Bangkok, Thailand

Think you can win a staring contest with one of these? With piercing yellow eyes against a grey-brown face, spotted owlets are often seen when small birds spot them during the day and mob them. Once located, these primarily nocturnal owls will often stare down at intruders, bob their heads and emit a loud "chirurrr-chirurrr-chirurrr" screech, or what"s sometimes described as laughter or chuckling.Desktop Version

Dec 17, 2024Reine, Norway

Step aside, regular beach houses—Reine"s little red cabins are here to steal the show. One of the prettiest places in the Lofoten Islands of Norway, Reine is a fishing village with a population of around 300. A trading post since 1775, it has evolved from a commercial hub to become a sought-after tourist destination. The village"s waterfront is lined with the traditional fishermen"s cabins called rorbu or rorbuer, which are mostly red in colour, as seen in today"s image. Once important to fishermen, these cabins have now become a popular pick for tourist rentals. In 1999, German painter Ingo Kühl set up a pop-up studio in a rorbu in Reine, where he painted scenes of the harbour framed by the towering mountain range.Desktop Version

Jul 5, 2024Daintree Rainforest and Noah Beach, Queensland, Australia

Welcome to a land where greenery meets the endless blue! Situated on the North Queensland coast of Australia is Noah Beach, a sanctuary encircled by the dense foliage of the Daintree Rainforest. Bordered by the waters of the Coral Sea, this beach is a fascinating blend of two distinct ecosystems—the rainforest seamlessly meeting the azure waters of the sea. This secluded area of the Daintree National Park boasts a stretch of soft, golden sands. In this national park there are towering trees, lush ferns and other plant species that are unique to the area. This rainforest is the largest continuous expanse of its kind in Australia and is believed to have existed for up to 180 million years, making it the oldest tropical rainforest in the world.Desktop Version

Dec 11, 2024Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy

Let"s talk about one of the planet"s towering giants. Meet the Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," standing tall on the right in today"s image. Part of the Sexten Dolomites in northeastern Italy, they are one of the most famous mountain groups in the Alps, rising to an elevation of 2,999 metres. These three peaks—Cima Grande, Cima Ovest and Cima Piccola—are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike. During World War I, the front line between Italy and Austria-Hungary ran through the peaks, leaving the area with many remnants of the conflict, including fortifications, trenches, tunnels and commemorative plaques.Desktop Version

Jul 23, 2024Methoni Castle, Messinia, Greece

Perched on a rocky headland is Methoni Castle, a symbol of medieval might situated on the shores of the Ionian Sea in southern Greece. The fortress is in Methoni, a village in the Messinia region. Built by the Venetians in the early 13th century, this castle was a key trading post and a defensive bastion, protecting the southwestern coastline from invaders. Its Bourtzi tower, an extension of the fortress standing on a small islet, was once connected to the main castle by a stone bridge.Desktop Version

Sep 13, 2024Point Reyes National Seashore

Welcome to Point Reyes National Seashore, where the sky meets the earth. This stunning 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

Feb 12, 2025Marine iguanas, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Marine iguanas, seen in today"s image, are fascinating creatures found exclusively on the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. They weigh around 1.5 kilograms and can grow up to 1.5 metres in length. These reptiles are the only lizards in the world that forage in the sea, diving to graze on algae growing on submerged rocks. Researchers believe that both Galápagos land iguanas and marine iguanas evolved from a common ancestor that likely rafted from Central or South America. They"ve adapted in remarkable ways, from flattened tails for swimming to salt glands that allow them to expel seawater by sneezing.Desktop Version

Mar 21, 2025Danum Valley, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia

One of the most breathtaking places to observe the richness of forests is the Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah on the Malaysian island of Borneo, as seen in today"s image. This approximately 43,800-hectare sanctuary is home to an ancient, 130-million-year-old rainforest, teeming with rare species like Bornean orangutans, clouded leopards and over 270 bird species. In addition to its incredible biodiversity, the Danum Valley is also a haven for researchers, with long-term studies monitoring its ecosystem and wildlife to aid conservation efforts. Let"s take a moment to appreciate nature"s beauty and support efforts to safeguard our forests for generations to come.Desktop Version

May 26, 2024Methow Valley, North Cascades, Washington, USA

If you"re looking for meadows blanketed with vibrant beds of wildflowers, the Methow Valley in the North Cascade Mountains, Washington, USA is the place for you. Lupines, with their characteristic spiky blooms in purple, blue and white, and balsamroot, with its large, golden-yellow flowers, create a picturesque contrast with the rugged mountain backdrop. These flowers also play crucial roles in the valley"s ecosystem. Lupines are nitrogen-fixing plants; they help improve soil fertility by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by neighbouring plants. Balsamroot, on the other hand, attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which helps in plant reproduction and, in turn, contributes to the biodiversity of the region. Whether you"re a seasoned botanist or nature enthusiast, the wildflowers of the Methow Valley will surely leave a lasting impression of the enchanting wilderness.Desktop Version

May 10, 2025Castildetierra in the Bardenas Reales, Navarre, Spain

In the heart of the Bardenas Reales of Navarre, a unique semi-desert landscape in Spain, rises Castildetierra, the most iconic rock formation in the area. Its silhouette, reminiscent of a natural tower eroded by wind and water, is a symbol of this territory declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.Desktop Version

Mar 16, 2025A kingfisher perched on a branch

Don"t be fooled by its tropical look, this bird has a wide range and adapts to various climates—meet the kingfisher. With over 100 species spread across the globe, kingfishers are found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to coastal regions. Most species, like the common kingfisher, prefer freshwater environments across Europe, Asia and Africa, while others, such as the belted kingfisher, are found in North and South America. These birds are instantly recognisable by their vibrant plumage, often featuring a striking mix of blues, greens and oranges.Desktop Version

Jul 25, 2024Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA

Fancy a walk through the Smokies in Tennessee, seen in today"s image? Spanning over 211,415 hectares between North Carolina and Tennessee in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Home to more than 19,000 documented species, scientists estimate that tens of thousands more remain undiscovered. Kilometres of hiking trails wind through the dense woodlands, leading adventurers to cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks.Desktop Version

Sep 14, 2024Rapa 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 6,880 hectares, including four nearby islets.Desktop Version

Sep 21, 2023Inside the Nobel Peace Centre, Oslo, Norway

Deep within the bustling city of Oslo in Norway stands the Nobel Peace Centre, highlighting the triumphs of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and sharing Alfred Nobel"s legacy, the creator of the prize. It stands as a testament to the promotion of peace and the recognition of those who have contributed significantly to global harmony. By showcasing inspiring exhibits and insightful conversations, the centre sheds light on the ways humanity has been impacted by these remarkable individuals. Art, multimedia installations and a multitude of thought-provoking exhibits here also reflect the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and cooperation in resolving conflicts and building a better world.Desktop Version

Aug 30, 2024Whale shark

Whale sharks have been around for more than 240 million years, but the first specimen was discovered off the coast of South Africa in the 1820s. As the world"s largest fish, these gentle giants can grow up to 12 metres, with one reaching a record 18.8 metres. Found in tropical oceans around the world, these filter feeders glide through the water, mouth wide open, straining plankton and small fish. Each pattern on their dotted, starry skin is as unique as a human fingerprint. Sadly, the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists whale sharks as endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss and climate change. Amid adversity, there"s hope, like in Cenderawasih Bay in Indonesia, a whale shark oasis that"s pictured here. Here, these titans dine on the generosity of fishermen who feed them baitfish for luck, reflecting a unique bond between man and marine life.Desktop Version

Aug 12, 2024African elephants, Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Elephants are the largest living land animals, with three species alive today: African bush, African forest and Asian. Today"s image features a herd of African elephants roaming the vast expanses of Amboseli National Park, Kenya. This park spans over 96,880 acres on the Kenya-Tanzania border. It is home to African bush elephants, Cape buffaloes, impalas, lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, Masai giraffes, Grant"s zebras and blue wildebeests.Desktop Version

May 8, 2024Château dIf, Marseille, France

Imagine standing at the edge of the glistening Mediterranean Sea and gazing at the distant outline of Château d"If in France, stirring memories of adventure and intrigue immortalised in Alexandre Dumas", "The Count of Monte Cristo." This legendary fortress, dating back to the 16th century, stands proudly as a testament to its Renaissance origins, serving as both a bastion of defence and a somber prison. It was commissioned by King François I and is perched on a rugged island in the Frioul Archipelago, just off the coast of Marseille. Today, the captivating Château d’If is one of Marseille"s many attractions, where the past seamlessly intertwines with contemporary culture.Desktop Version

Aug 29, 2024Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia, Spain

Perched on the edge of a basalt cliff, a town peers at the river running below. Today"s image takes us to Castellfollit de la Roca in the Catalonia region of northeastern Spain. This town isn"t for the faint-hearted: there"s a 49-metre drop down to the Toronell and Fluvia Rivers, which converge at the base of the cliff. Many of the buildings, which are made of the same basalt that the town stands on, seem to teeter on the edge of the precipice. Pictured at the end of the crag is the 13th-century church of Sant Salvador.Desktop Version

Dec 20, 2024Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

Nestled in Rovaniemi, Finland, and pictured in today"s image, Santa Claus Village is a magical year-round destination. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this village offers unique experiences, like crossing the Arctic Circle line. Right at the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is the capital of the region. Known for its winter-wonderland landscapes of snowy forests and the magical northern lights, Rovaniemi offers a unique blend of natural beauty and festive spirit. From snowy forests to festive encounters, Rovaniemi invites visitors to experience its enchantment year-round. Whether you"re on Team Christmas or Team Grinch, there"s no way you won"t be amazed by Rovaniemi"s charm.Desktop Version

Jun 18, 2025Asian swallowtail butterfly

Featured here is the Asian swallowtail, beautifully captured on a red spider lily. Found across Northeast Asia and even parts of Hawaii, this striking butterfly is known for its vivid colouration and powerful flight, making it a frequent visitor to both urban gardens and wild habitats. While it is common and not currently threatened, its role as a pollinator is no less important. The Asian swallowtail uses sophisticated colour vision and colour constancy to identify flowers, especially those in the citrus family, even under changing light conditions. This remarkable ability allows it to remain an effective pollinator across a wide range of environments. Delicate yet determined, the Asian swallowtail reminds us that even the smallest pollinators play a big role in keeping nature balanced and beautiful.Desktop Version

Apr 28, 2024El Capitan, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas, USA

Let us take you to Guadalupe Mountains National Park in western Texas, USA. The park, officially established in 1972, covers nearly 350 square kilometres today. Here, the Guadalupe Mountains rise over the salt dunes of the Chihuahuan Desert. At 2,667 metres, the highest point of the mountain range—and of Texas—is the Guadalupe Peak. Another outstanding landmark, often used as a waymark for travellers, is the 2464-metre-high El Capitan—not to be confused with the about 914-metre El Capitan in California—limestone cliff, seen in today"s image.Desktop Version

Oct 20, 2024Three-toed sloth in Costa Rica

The world"s slowest mammal takes the spotlight in today"s image. There are six living sloth species, divided into two types: three-toed sloths and two-toed sloths. The three-toed sloth, a laid-back, tree-loving mammal that"s right at home in the tropical regions of South and Central America. They have short tails and three clawed toes on each limb, which help them cling onto branches with ease. Sloths are mainly leaf eaters, although they also snack on fruits, and tree sap to keep them going. To help them break down those tough, fibrous leaves, they have a special multi-chambered stomach. With their super slow metabolism, digestion takes its sweet time, and they don"t need much food each day to get by. It"s not just their stomachs that move at a leisurely pace; they"re so slow-moving that algae often develop on their fur, giving a greenish tint, which handily also provides them camouflage.Desktop Version

Sep 18, 2024Gujō Hachiman Castle

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

Jun 4, 2024Chestnut-headed bee-eaters

It"s not just a name. Chestnut-headed bee-eaters really do spend their days swooping after stinging insects. As well as bees, they also feast on wasps, hornets and other bugs. The birds in today"s image are in Bardia National Park in Nepal, but they"re found across many other South Asian countries, from India and Bangladesh to Sri Lanka and Thailand. They catch their prey mid-flight, returning to a perch where they can beat stinging insects to stun them, which makes them safe to eat. These birds are designed to hunt: their dazzling green plumage helps camouflage them in dappled jungle light, their curved beak is perfect for picking off insects with precision and their eyes can move individually, which makes them all the better for spotting bees.Desktop Version

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