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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 1,740 metres above sea level, it is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, with its perimeter stretching more than 2 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. With astounding views, mythical roots and activities for every season, this lake may well be the Dolomites" most alluring reflection.Desktop Version

Jun. 4, 2024Chestnut-headed bee-eater, Bardia National Park, Nepal

It"s not just a name. Chestnut-headed bee-eaters 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 in 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

Mar. 23, 2025World Meteorological Day

Today, we celebrate World Meteorological Day, commemorating the founding of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) in 1950. For the annual event, WMO places emphasis on a different pressing topic each year. The slogan of 2025, "Closing the early warning gap together," highlights the importance of timely weather alerts and early action.Desktop Version

Dec. 2, 2024Moose, Denali National Park, Alaska, United States

Have you ever experienced the awe of seeing an Alaskan moose? The largest moose species, these creatures can weigh between 317 and 635 kilograms, reaching heights of up to 2 metres at the shoulder. Male moose are called bulls, females are known as cows and their young are referred to as calves. One thing that sets moose apart is their incredible antlers, which are only sported by the males.Desktop Version

May 22, 2024International Day for Biological Diversity

Today we"re celebrating the biodiversity of our planet! What exactly is biodiversity? It refers to all living things, from animals and plants to fungi and microorganisms, in one area. This delicate but vigorous balance in nature is what keeps us all alive. That"s definitely worth celebrating! May 22 was officially declared to be the International Day for Biological Diversity by the United Nations in 2000. Unfortunately, the biodiversity of Earth is slowly decreasing due to climate change, the draining of natural resources, urbanisation and pollution, among other factors. It is our responsibility to return nature"s favour to us and protect our environment. After all, we are blessed with intriguing species such as the Tasmanian snow gum—the tree seen in today"s image—which takes root in one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet, the Mount Field National Park in Tasmania, Australia.Desktop Version

Oct. 11, 2024Celtic Colours International Festival

The Celtic Colours International Festival begins today in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. This festival celebrates the area"s inhabitants, including 19th-century settlers who came from Scotland and Ireland. Because of Cape Breton Island"s isolation and the lack of outside influences, the culture and traditions of these settlers remained particularly strong. Held when the island"s fall colours are most vibrant, the festival has blossomed into a nine-day extravaganza that coincides with the warm red, orange and yellow autumn foliage.Desktop Version

Feb. 7, 2025Blue hour in Trondheim, Norway

In Norway, winter isn"t just a season—it"s an experience. In the north of the country, nights stretch for 20 hours, and there are entire weeks when the sun remains hidden below the horizon. It might sound bleak, but it"s a unique time of the year. Why? Because around early afternoon, usually between 1 and 2 PM, a soft, lingering light reflects off the snow-covered ground and the deep blue sea. This forms a breathtaking, glassy blue glow that settles over the landscape. Each day, the blue hour arrives just a little later, a gentle reminder that the sun is slowly preparing to reclaim the sky.Desktop Version

Sep. 27, 2024Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy

Steeped in history, the Santa Maria della Salute church in Venice is a prime example of Baroque architecture. Constructed between 1631 and 1687, the church was a votive offering for the city"s deliverance from a devastating plague in 1630. Built at the entrance to the Grand Canal, its dome dominates the Venice skyline, as seen in today"s image. Italian architect Baldassare Longhena envisioned this structure at the age of 26, and it became his lifelong project, which was completed after his death. The exterior of the church, with its volutes—spiral, scroll-like ornaments—and statues contrasts with the spacious octagonal interior adorned with works by Renaissance artists like Titian and Tintoretto. Each November, Venice commemorates the church"s significance during the Festa della Madonna della Salute, a cultural celebration that includes festive processions and offering of candles in gratitude for deliverance from the plague.Desktop Version

Nov. 20, 2024World Childrens Day

What"s more creative than a young mind? This World Children"s Day, let"s celebrate the boundless imagination of kids and the ideas they bring to life. A UNICEF initiative, this day is more than a reminder—it"s a call to action. This year, adults are encouraged to listen and engage with children, gaining insights that can shape today"s decisions. Kids are raising their voices on issues ranging from conflict and climate change to mental health and discrimination, influencing the future.Desktop Version

Mar. 27, 2025World Theatre Day

Lights on, curtains rise—it"s World Theatre Day. Since 1961, this annual event by the International Theater Institute (ITI) has united audiences and artists in a shared appreciation of storytelling, creativity and culture. Every year, a renowned theatre figure is invited by ITI to deliver a message that resonates across the industry. Their words are translated into more than 50 languages and shared with people all over the world. These messages highlight theatre"s role in society—be it as a mirror to reality, an agent of change or a refuge for the imagination. From Shakespeare"s soliloquies to experimental avant-garde productions, theatre has continuously evolved while holding onto its core: human connection.Desktop Version

Jan. 28, 2025Short-eared owl

The short-eared owl, featured in today"s image, is a grassland-dwelling member of the owl family. Found on all continents except Antarctica and Australia, it is one of the most widely distributed bird species. This winged bird is found across Canada, primarily in open habitats such as grasslands, prairies and wetlands. This raptor belongs to the genus Asio, whose members are characterised by feather tufts ("ears") on their heads. The short-eared owl only reveals its tufts when feeling defensive. Because of its irregular wingbeats, its flight is on the floppy side, much like a moth or bat. It likes to glide a few metres above the ground in open fields and grasslands, swooping down feet-first to grab its preyDesktop Version

Jun. 22, 2024World Rainforest Day

Fresh air, lush foliage, rustling leaves and calls of thousands of species of animals and birds—welcome to the Amazon rainforest. Today, on World Rainforest Day, let"s give a shout-out to this region. Covering over 5,500,000 square kilometres, this ecological treasure in South America extends its branches across nine nations—Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela.Desktop Version

Feb. 24, 2025Giant cuttlefish, Whyalla, South Australia, Australia

Prepare to be amazed by the giant cuttlefish, known for its mesmerising ability to transform its appearance in the blink of an eye. This cuttlefish is found in the temperate and subtropical waters of Australia, ranging from Brisbane in Queensland and Shark Bay in Western Australia to as far south as Tasmania. Featured here is a giant cuttlefish in Whyalla, South Australia. In this region, where males are significantly outnumbered, a unique gender imbalance fuels intense competition for mating rights.Desktop Version

May 25, 2024Aït Benhaddou, Morocco

Are you looking for sandy charms? Come to Aït Benhaddou, Morocco, situated along the old caravan route linking the Sahara to Marrakesh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Moroccan earthen clay architecture, a building technique that uses sun-dried mud to make structures. Although none of the buildings here are believed to predate the 17th century, they are constructed using techniques and styles that are much older. Located on the gentle slopes overlooking the Asif Ounila (Ounila River) is the ksar, a fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, with mud-brick structures. Clustered within a defensive wall with a gate and corner towers, ksars are a great representation of classic pre-Saharan dwelling. The ksar"s communal landscape includes a public square, a mosque, grain-threshing areas beyond the fortifications and a caravanserai—a type of roadside inn, among other features. So, if you are seeking a journey off the beaten path, Aït Benhaddou awaits you!Desktop Version

Nov. 3, 2024International Day for Biosphere Reserves

Today is the International Day for Biosphere Reserves. Biosphere reserves may sound like a scientific mouthful, but they"re essentially nature"s sweet spots—places where biodiversity, or variety of life on Earth, thrives. These areas, recognised by UNESCO, keep ecosystems healthy, protect endangered species and help regulate climate through forests, wetlands and other crucial habitats. There are 759 biosphere reserves across 136 countries. From the lush greenery of Sundarbans in India to the vast expanses of the Great Sandy Biosphere Reserve in Australia, each reserve is unique.Desktop Version

Feb. 16, 2025Happy World Whale Day!

On the third Sunday of February, World Whale Day highlights the beauty of whales and the challenges they face. This year, on February 16, we honour these majestic creatures, like the humpback whale pictured in today"s image, known for its enchanting songs and dramatic breaches. World Whale Day began in 1980 in Maui, Hawaii, led by Greg Kauffman of the Pacific Whale Foundation, to protect humpbacks from extinction. Today, it urges global action on threats like ocean pollution, climate change and habitat loss.Desktop Version

Jul. 17, 2024Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria, Germany

The word you"re looking for is "fairy tale." Welcome to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or "Red Fortress above the Tauber River," where medieval charm is around every cobbled corner. With origins as a self-ruling city, in the Middle Ages, this walled Bavarian town once flourished with 6,000 inhabitants, making it the Holy Roman Empire"s second-largest city at the time. The growth of Rothenburg ob der Tauber slowed in the 17th century, preserving its original character. Pictured here is Burgtor or the castle gate, which was built after the original Rothenburg Castle was destroyed by an earthquake in 1356.Desktop Version

Dec. 9, 2024Guanacos in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Prick up your ears and stretch your neck—let"s step into the world of guanacos. These creatures, part of the same family as camels, alpacas and llamas, are native to the rugged landscapes of South America. Standing around 110 centimetres tall and weighing up to 90 kilograms, guanacos travel in herds led by a dominant male, accompanied by females and their young. After a gestation period of around 11 months, females give birth to a single baby—known as a chulengo—which is able to stand and walk within an hour of birth. Their diet, consisting of grasses, shrubs and lichens, enables them to flourish in harsh, mountainous terrain. Guanaco"s soft, warm fur—first introduced for textile use in the mid-1900s—is highly prized. It is used to create luxury fabrics and is valued second only to vicuña wool across the Americas.Desktop Version

Jun. 26, 2024Banggai cardinalfish with sea anemone

Dive deep beneath the waves surrounding the Banggai Islands in Indonesia and meet the Banggai cardinalfish. Cardinalfish can grow up to 8 centimetres and have tiny shimmery bodies with black vertical stripes and white-edged fins, which help them disguise. Unlike some finned creatures that migrate long distances, these pint-sized fish inhabit a small world, rarely straying far from their local reefs.Desktop Version

Apr. 2, 2025Sandstone formations in the badlands near Caineville, Utah, United States

Wavy sandstone ridges stretch across the Caineville Badlands, Utah, in the United States, resembling nature"s brushstrokes on stone. These formations are made of fine-grained sediment that settled in ancient river deltas and inland seas and later hardened into stone. Over time, erosion carved through the layers, exposing flowing, ripple-like patterns. The sedimentary layers tell a story of shifting climates and ancient landscapes. The barren land, seen in today"s image, may appear lifeless, but during early spring, rainfall blankets the terrain with tiny purple and yellow flowers. Light and shadow shift throughout the day, offering photographers and visitors various angles. While much of the terrain remains rugged, some areas offer easy access, allowing visitors to explore without strenuous hiking.Desktop Version

Sep. 27, 2024Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy

Steeped in history, the Santa Maria della Salute church in Venice is a prime example of Baroque architecture. Constructed between 1631 and 1687, the church was a votive offering for the city"s deliverance from a devastating plague in 1630. Built at the entrance to the Grand Canal, its dome dominates the Venice skyline, as seen in today"s image. Italian architect Baldassare Longhena envisioned this structure at the age of 26, and it became his lifelong project, which was completed after his death. The exterior of the church, with its volutes—spiral, scroll-like ornaments—and statues contrasts with the spacious octagonal interior adorned with works by Renaissance artists like Titian and Tintoretto. Each November, Venice commemorates the church"s significance during the Festa della Madonna della Salute, a cultural celebration that includes festive processions and offering of candles in gratitude for deliverance from the plague.Desktop Version

Feb. 9, 2025Alstrom Point, Lake Powell, Utah, United States

If you"re chasing sunsets and jaw-dropping views, come to Alstrom Point. Located in southern Utah"s Kane County in the United States, this spot in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stands at an impressive height of 1,427 metres. Made mostly of Entrada Sandstone, it has the same geological roots as nearby sites like Romana Mesa, its parent peak, and Gunsight Butte, another sandstone summit to the east.Desktop Version

Aug. 28, 2024Paralympic Games begin in Paris

The Summer Paralympic Games get underway in Paris today. More than 4,000 athletes from all around the world will meet in the French capital to compete in 22 sports across 549 different events. Delegations from 184 nations will parade down the iconic Champs-Élysées to the Place de la Concorde rather than entering a stadium. This year, the Canadian Paralympic Team consists of 20 members that includes five Paralympic medallists, like Greg Stewart and Brent Lakatos. The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960. 23 nations took part, competing in eight sports, including wheelchair basketball and para-athletics.Desktop Version

Sep. 8, 2024International Literacy Day

"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." These words by former secretary-general of the United Nations Kofi Annan capture the essence of International Literacy Day, celebrated every September 8. Established by UNESCO in 1966, this observance not only celebrates those who can read but also highlights the ongoing battle against illiteracy. With approximately 775 million people worldwide still lacking basic literacy, this day resonates powerfully within the hallowed walls of the Stockholm Public Library in Sweden, or "Stadsbiblioteket" as it is known to locals, featured in today"s image.Desktop Version

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