# img_en

date: 2024-07-15
filename: TateishiPark_EN-US8384642632.jpg
title: Seas the day
copyright: Tateishi Park, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan (© blew_s/Shutterstock)
story:
Today, we're floating across the waves, following the ocean currents to Japan. Marine Day—海の日, Umi no Hi in Japanese—is celebrated on the third Monday in July. Japan has 14,125 islands and has over 18,400 miles of coastline, so it's no wonder the sea plays such a key role in its culture. It provides much of the country's food and is vital for trading and communicating with other nations.


date: 2024-07-16
filename: AncientOrkney_EN-US8469766447.jpg
title: Digging into the past
copyright:
The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, Orkney, Scotland (© Paul Williams - FunkyStock/Getty Images)

story:
Archaeology might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of festivals, but the Festival of British Archaeology, July 13-28, is here to change that. Since its inception in 1990, it has evolved into a two-week event. A clever shift from September to July has made it easier for archaeological buffs to explore summer digs and heritage wonders. This year's theme of 'Archaeology and Community' invites enthusiasts across the United Kingdom for an array of in-person and virtual events. Imagine standing amid Skara Brae's ancient stone houses on Scotland's Orkney archipelago, pictured here, where Neolithic settlers thrived over 5,000 years ago. Exposed by an 1850 storm, this prehistoric marvel is dubbed the 'Scottish Pompeii' due to its astonishing preservation—older than Stonehenge and even the Great Pyramids. So, grab your trowel, and get ready to dig deep into the incredible, storied past. Who knows what you'll discover!


date: 2024-07-17
filename: MedievalRothenburg_EN-US8575765997.jpg
title: Towering with history
copyright: Medieval city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (© kanuman/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or 'Red Fortress above the Tauber River,' where medieval charm is around every cobbled corner. A self-ruling city in the Middle Ages, this walled Bavarian town once flourished with 6,000 inhabitants, 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.


date: 2024-07-18
filename: MayotteCoral_EN-US8740739098.jpg
title: Deep and meaningful
copyright: Coral reef in the Indian Ocean, Mayotte, France (© Gabriel Barathieu/Minden Pictures)
story:
Blooming pillar corals, green sea turtles, and colorful reef fishes—welcome to the underwater universe of coral reefs. They are formed by tiny marine organisms called coral polyps, which create vast colonies housing many species. As we celebrate their beauty and benefits, it's vital to recognize the lurking threats of climate change, pollution, and harmful human activities.


date: 2024-07-19
filename: YoungJaguar_EN-US8866928893.jpg
title: Clever camouflage
copyright: A young jaguar on a riverbank, Pantanal, Brazil (© Tambako the Jaguar/Getty Images)
story:
Spot the wildlife star in today's image. The jaguar is the largest cat in the Americas and is seen here in the world's largest tropical wetland, the Pantanal in Brazil. Jaguars arrived in the Americas some 2 million years ago, migrating from Eurasia through the Bering Strait. Today, they live in various habitats from the woodlands of the southwestern US to the rainforests of northern Argentina. Brazil is home to about half of the world's wild jaguars.


date: 2024-07-20
filename: MineralMoon_EN-US8936600169.jpg
title: To the moon and back
copyright: The moon (© Victor Blum/Getty Images)
story:
Today we're celebrating small steps and giant leaps—it's International Moon Day. This day honors the legacy of the Apollo 11 mission. Initially celebrated as National Moon Day, it was recognized by the United Nations in 2021. Human civilizations have gazed at the sky for millennia, contemplating the origins and mysteries of the moon. The advent of space exploration transformed it into the target of numerous missions.


date: 2024-07-21
filename: ZanzibarBoats_EN-US9009404410.jpg
title: Smooth sailing
copyright: Wooden fishing boats at Kendwa, Zanzibar, Tanzania (© Lubos Paukeje/Alamy)
story:
Off the coast of East Africa in the archipelago of Zanzibar is the village of Kendwa. This serene village plays a modest role in the islands' fishing industry, with traditional wooden boats, known as dhows, etching patterns across the waters. The local dhow builders offer a glimpse into an artisanal craft that has sailed through generations. Venture deeper and you'll find lush spice farms where the air tingles with the scent of nutmeg and black pepper. Here, traditional Swahili dishes, including nyama choma, a roasted meat dish, and samaki wa kaupaka, fish with coconut sauce, blend spices with the bounty of the sea and land. As the sun sets, bonfires flicker into life and the island pulses with Taarab, a fusion of African, Arabic, and Indian music. With so much to see, Zanzibar proves that variety really is the spice of life.


date: 2024-07-22
filename: HammockCamping_EN-US9298465355.jpg
title: Just hanging out
copyright: Hammock camping on a lake in Central Florida (© Mac Stone/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Imagine swaying gently under a canopy of leaves, a soft breeze coaxing you into a serene slumber while you gaze at the stars above. Observed every July 22, Hammock Day is not just a nod to the lazy lull of summer days, but an homage to an ancient tradition. Invented by the Indigenous peoples of Central and South America, hammocks were called 'hamacas' and were originally woven for sleep and relaxation.


date: 2024-07-23
filename: MethoniCastle_EN-US9447007951.jpg
title: Echoes of history
copyright: Methoni Castle, Messenia, Greece (© Andrew Mayovskyy/Shutterstock)
story:
Perched on a rocky headland is Methoni Castle, a symbol of medieval might on the shores of the Ionian Sea. The fortress, on the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece, was built by the Venetians in the early 13th century as a trading post and defensive bastion, protecting the 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.


date: 2024-07-24
filename: SheepCousins_EN-US9566915151.jpg
title: Baa-utiful family
copyright: Flock of Swaledale sheep in North Yorkshire, England (© R A Kearton/Getty Images)
story:
Family gatherings wouldn't be the same without them. Today, we are celebrating the unique bond between cousins. Cousins Day offers the perfect opportunity to reminisce about those shared adventures, secrets, and the countless memories that have brought you closer together. First cousins share about 12.5% of their DNA; this could explain why you often have so much love and understanding with them. So, go ahead and make some plans with your cousins, whether it is a picnic or a shared meal at your favorite local haunt. And while you are at it, don't forget to pose for a photo, much like this group of Swaledale sheep in the North Yorkshire dales of England. Chances are, there are at least a few cousins in this flock.


date: 2024-07-25
filename: SmokyMountainTrail_EN-US9730767535.jpg
title: Into the thick of it
copyright: Forest path in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (© putmanphoto/Getty Images)
story:
Fancy a walk through the Smokies in Tennessee, seen in today's image? Spanning over 522,000 acres between North Carolina and Tennessee, 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. Miles of hiking trails wind through the dense woodlands, leading adventurers to cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The park also boasts some of the highest mountains in the eastern United States, including Clingmans Dome, which rises to 6,643 feet. Visitors are often enchanted by the mist that blankets the peaks each morning, giving the park its mystical name. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.


date: 2024-07-26
filename: PontNeuf_EN-US5735328254.jpg
title: Let the Games begin!
copyright: Pont Neuf over the Seine, Paris, France (© f11photo/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to Paris, the City of Light, which is hosting the Summer Olympics for the third time. What makes these Games unique is the opening ceremony, which will be held outside a stadium for the first time. Participants will parade along the Seine on a flotilla of boats, passing under the Pont Neuf, pictured here, and cheered by spectators lining both banks. Paris is no stranger to historic firsts; the 1900 Games included women competing for the first time, although they made up only 22 of 997 athletes.


date: 2024-07-27
filename: RhinelandVineyards_EN-US5864380431.jpg
title: 'Riesling' to perfection
copyright: Vineyards in the Mosel Valley, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany (© Jorg Greuel/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to the Palatinate, a wine lover's dream come true. This wine-growing region in western Germany has rolling hills, fertile soils, and a warm climate, allowing the cultivation of a diverse variety of grapes. While riesling reigns supreme, other notable varieties include chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot blanc, Müller-Thurgau, and Dornfelder. The Palatinate is the largest red wine-producing region in the country, with over 40% of the vineyards devoted to it.


date: 2024-07-28
filename: BeachHutsSweden_EN-US6029381108.jpg
title: Chromatic coastline
copyright: Bathing huts on the beach in Skåne County, Sweden (© Martin Wahlborg/Getty Images)
story:
When it comes to vibrant beach scenes, Skåne County in Sweden, doesn't disappoint. Today's image features pastel huts in Skanörs Havsbad, a sandy beach section in the town of Skanör. This is one of the most popular parts of the beach, which stretches for over 6 miles, on the western side of the Falsterbonäset peninsula. Located near the Skanör marina, this part of the beach is a favorite spot for bathers in the summer months.


date: 2024-07-29
filename: CorbettTigers_EN-US6183924498.jpg
title: Roar and explore
copyright: Tiger siblings in Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, India (© Sourabh Bharti/Getty Images)
story:
We're off to a roaring start today: It's International Tiger Day, which aims to protect these magnificent big cats amid threats such as poaching and habitat loss. At the end of the 19th century, there were thought to be around 100,000 tigers in the wild; these days, there are fewer than 6,000.


date: 2024-07-30
filename: GimignanoTuscany_EN-US6339668180.jpg
title: A medieval Manhattan
copyright: San Gimignano, Siena, Tuscany, Italy (© MNStudio/Shutterstock)
story:
These medieval towers stand tall over San Gimignano, a small town near Siena in north central Italy. In the Middle Ages, a town grew up around a church dedicated to St. Geminianus (San Gimignano in Italian). As well as being a popular stop for pilgrims on their way to Rome, the town prospered thanks to its trade in local Vernaccia wine and in saffron, which is grown in the nearby hills. However, when the Black Death struck in 1348, half the population was lost, slowing the town's development and preserving its medieval character to this day.


date: 2024-07-31
filename: HoodoosBryce_EN-US6434628044.jpg
title: 'Hoodoo' we have here?
copyright: Hoodoos, Sunset Point, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (© Tim Fitzharris/Minden Pictures)
story:
Let's take a trip to a forest of stones. Sunset Point, seen in today's image, offers sweeping views of the hoodoos of Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park. These rock formations are created by frost weathering and stream erosion, which shape the stone into an otherworldly landscape. Perched at 8,000 to 9,000 feet, this overlook offers a panoramic view of rocky spires in red, orange, and white. The most iconic of them is Thor's Hammer, a hoodoo that overlooks a part of the park known as the 'Silent City.' The Queen's Garden Trail, which leads from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point, offers even more vistas and rock formations, including the Queen Victoria hoodoo. According to the legend told by the Paiute Indigenous people who inhabited this area, hoodoos are people who have been turned to stone for their misdeeds by the trickster Coyote. Whether you're a hiker, a photographer, or simply a traveler, the hoodoos are waiting.


date: 2024-08-01
filename: KaptaiLake_EN-US6490685268.jpg
title: There's a boatload of bargains here
copyright: Floating market, Kaptai Lake, Rangamati, Bangladesh (© Azim Khan Ronnie/Amazing Aerial Agency)
story:
Every Saturday, the largest artificial lake in Bangladesh comes to life with colors and flavors. Kaptai Lake in Rangamati District is home to the floating market of seasonal fruit seen in today's image. The lake was created in the early 1960s to generate hydropower, submerging not just land and the palace of the king of the Chakmas, Bangladesh's largest ethnic minority group, but a way of life, displacing 100,000 people. Sixty years on and the landscape has changed. This buoyant bazaar has become a livelihood, as farmers navigate their wooden vessels along the bank to engage with eager buyers. You leave with a bag full of fresh fruit or just a bunch of unforgettable memories, whatever floats your boat.


date: 2024-08-02
filename: TrunkBay_EN-US6585719799.jpg
title: Somewhere under the rainbow
copyright: Trunk Bay, St. John, Virgin Islands National Park (© cdwheatley/Getty Images)
story:
In 1956, businessman and conservationist Laurance Rockefeller saw the beauty of St. John, one of the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, and knew it had to be preserved. He donated more than 5,000 acres of land to the National Park Service, and today we're marking the 68th anniversary of Virgin Islands National Park. Covering about 60% of St. John and 5,650 acres of submerged lands, the park boasts stunning white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and historic sites.


date: 2024-08-03
filename: WulongKarst_EN-US6752358338.jpg
title: Towering over Wulong
copyright:
Three Natural Bridges, Wulong Karst National Geology Park, China (© Pav-Pro Photography Ltd/Shutterstock)

story:
Carved by nature over centuries, the Three Natural Bridges tower over a deep gorge in Wulong Karst. This part of China is known for its karst landscape, which includes towering arches, extensive caves, and other rock formations. These limestone bridges are named after three dragons: Tianlong (Sky Dragon), Heilong (Black Dragon), and Qinglong (Azure Dragon), which is the tallest at 922 feet. Visitors can explore the mossy gorge beneath and the wider Wulong Karst National Geology Park, including the 9,337-foot Furong Cave with its huge limestone stalactites. Standing beneath these magnificent natural bridges, you can't help but be humbled by the sheer power of time and nature.


date: 2024-08-04
filename: ImpalaOxpecker_EN-US6835989068.jpg
title: You've got a friend in me
copyright: Impala and red-billed oxpecker, South Africa (© Matrishva Vyas/Getty Images)
story:
Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes. This impala and the red-billed oxpecker, pictured in South Africa, both get something out of buddying up. The oxpecker gets food by eating ticks from the impala's skin, while the impala gets to stay clean.


date: 2024-08-05
filename: HertfordshireLavender_EN-US6911884438.jpg
title: A sea of purple
copyright: Lavender field, Hertfordshire, England (© George W Johnson/Getty Images)
story:
This lavender landscape stretching over fields in the English county of Hertfordshire is the quintessential summer scene. A member of the mint family, lavender has been popular through various civilizations. It was used by the Egyptians for mummification; traces of lavender were discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamun. It was also treasured by the Romans for its healing and cleansing properties.


date: 2024-08-06
filename: MolokiniHawaii_EN-US7128254175.jpg
title: A very pleasant crescent
copyright: Molokini Crater, Maui, Hawaii (© Douglas Peebles/eStock Photo)
story:
Today we're at Molokini Crater. This pleasant crescent in the Pacific Ocean lies in the 'Alalākeiki Channel between the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Kaho'olawe. The islet is all that remains of a volcano that erupted about 230,000 years ago. According to Hawaiian mythology, Pele the fire goddess was in love with a man named Mo'o. The trouble was that Mo'o was in love with another woman. Pele's revenge was typically violent: She cut her rival in two, her body becoming Molokini, while her head became Pu'u Olai, a cinder cone on Maui.


date: 2024-08-07
filename: MichiganLighthouse_EN-US2082743301.jpg
title: More than nautical necessity
copyright: St. Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lights, Michigan (© Kenneth Keifer/Getty Images)
story:
Amid dusky hues, lighthouses mark where a Great Lake meets a river. Two piers were built on Lake Michigan, one either side of the mouth of the St. Joseph River to help protect ships sailing upstream. In the early 20th century, a lighthouse was built at the end of each pier; the St. Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lights, pictured here.


date: 2024-08-08
filename: SpottedOwlet_EN-US7339417169.jpg
title: Big stare for a little owl
copyright: Spotted owlet, Bangkok, Thailand (© Tfilm/Getty Images)
story:
Could you win a staring contest with this spotted owlet? These primarily nocturnal owls are sometimes mobbed during the day by birds trying to defend their territory from predators. With their piercing yellow eyes, the small owls will stare down intruders, bob their heads, and emit a loud 'chirurrr-chirurrr-chirurrr' screech, sometimes likened to laughter or chuckling.


date: 2024-08-09
filename: IncaRuinPeru_EN-US1209778539.jpg
title: Celebrating Indigenous culture
copyright: Inca ruin of Sacsayhuamán near Cusco, Peru (© SL_Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Today we are celebrating the heritage and culture of native populations worldwide. There are some 5,000 Indigenous cultures in 90 countries around the world, from Samoa and Greenland to New Zealand and Nepal. One of the major challenges they face is the loss of their languages: It's estimated that of the 4,000 Indigenous languages in the world, around 2,600 are in danger of becoming extinct.


date: 2024-08-10
filename: JoshuaTreeNP_EN-US1399159741.jpg
title: Joshua under a starry blanket
copyright:
Joshua Tree National Park, California (© Chris Moore - Exploring Light Photography/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
California's Joshua Tree National Park has a history that began way before it was made a national monument on August 10, 1936. Located where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet, it has been home to various cultures for thousands of years. Its earliest known residents were people from the Pinto Culture, who lived here from 8000 to 4000 BCE. Centuries later, this land was inhabited by the native Cahuilla, Serrano, and Chemehuevi peoples. The park's namesake, the Joshua tree, grows in a landscape covering 1,242 square miles. Despite their name, they are not really trees, but rather a kind of succulent. Native to southwest US and northern Mexico, they can grow up to 40 feet tall.


date: 2024-08-11
filename: TofinoVancouver_EN-US1466348668.jpg
title: The path less taken
copyright: Wooden path to Kennedy Lake, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada (© EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock)
story:
Discover the beauty of Vancouver Island, Canada. The wooden pathway in today's image, surrounded by ancient pine and cedar trees, leads to Kennedy Lake, the largest freshwater body on the island. The lake covers a surface area of 16,000 acres. It is part of the ancestral lands of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation where the Clayoquot and Kennedy Rivers meet. Tofino, over 24 miles away, has a real surf vibe. This small coastal town is a sanctuary for hikers, bird watchers, artists, and dreamers. Famous for its mild winters and pleasant summers, it has been a filming location for movies like 'The Twilight Saga: New Moon' and 'One Week.'


date: 2024-08-12
filename: ElephantsAmboseli_EN-US1913542949.jpg
title: Herd you loud and clear
copyright: African elephants, Amboseli National Park, Kenya (© Ruzdi Ekenheim/Getty Images)
story:
Get ready to celebrate elephants, the largest living land animals. There are three elephant species alive today: African bush, African forest, and Asian. All three species are endangered, and World Elephant Day is dedicated to highlighting the challenges they face, like the ivory trade and habitat loss.


date: 2024-08-13
filename: DugiOtokCroatia_EN-US1981524043.jpg
title: Adriatic heights
copyright: Cliffs of Telašćica Nature Park, Dugi Otok Island, Croatia (© Ilija Ascic/Shutterstock)
story:
Welcome to the slice of paradise that is Telašćica Nature Park, on the Croatian island of Dugi Otok. Pictured behind cliffs separating it from the Adriatic Sea is the park's Telašćica Bay, which stretches inland over 6 miles and is the largest natural harbor in the Adriatic. Dotted with islets and surrounded by small islands, its dramatic cliffs tower more than 520 feet above sea level and are known locally as the 'stene.' Other features of the park include 25 secluded beaches, as well as the therapeutic Mir salt lake known for its healing properties. So, the next time you're in the mood for island-hopping, come to Telašćica, where the land and sea play an endless game of tag.


date: 2024-08-14
filename: WatarrkaLizard_EN-US2106702347.jpg
title: Feeling sharp today
copyright: Thorny devil, Watarrka National Park, Australia (© Yva Momatiuk and John Eastcott/Minden Pictures)
story:
From mythology to movies, lizards have often been portrayed as scary reptiles. But they're not as dangerous as stories might lead you to believe. World Lizard Day is the perfect time to learn about these cold-blooded creatures. With more than 7,000 species, lizards have adapted to a wide range of environments—from deserts to rainforests. Take geckos—these little climbers have toe pads that let them scale walls and walk on ceilings. Then there are chameleons with their color-changing skin. While many think it's all about blending in, this ability is also used to communicate and regulate temperature.


date: 2024-08-15
filename: HangCave_EN-US9374263509.jpg
title: A 'hole' new world
copyright: Hang Sơn Đoòng cave, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Vietnam (© Geng Xu/Getty Images)
story:
In 1991, logger Hồ Khanh stumbled upon something big in what is now Vietnam's Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park. During a jungle expedition, he found the entrance to a cave with a roaring underground river. It was later named Hang Sơn Đoòng, or 'cave of the mountain river' and in 2009, the British Cave Research Association led an expedition to explore it. They realized something incredible: It was the world's largest cave. Hang Sơn Đoòng's main passage is 3.1 miles long, 490 feet wide, and 660 feet high. That's tall enough to fit a 40-story skyscraper.


date: 2024-08-16
filename: JapanRollerCoaster_EN-US9463845683.jpg
title: Buckle up!
copyright:
Roller coaster in Nagashima Spa Land, Mie prefecture, Japan (© Japanese amateur photographer/Getty Images)

story:
From single rails to virtual reality, roller coasters have been thrilling people for centuries. Their origins can be traced back to 17th-century Russia, where wooden slides—'Russian Mountains'—provided seasonal entertainment. The first roller coaster was built in early 19th-century Paris, France. Called 'Les Montagnes Russes à Belleville,' it featured wheeled carts securely attached to tracks. By the 1900s, coasters were looping the loop for the first time.


date: 2024-08-17
filename: AlfanzinaLighthouse_EN-US9545750672.jpg
title: Light the way
copyright: Alfanzina Lighthouse, Algarve, Portugal (© Andreas Kunz/Getty Images)
story:
The lighthouse featured in today's image stands in southern Portugal's popular Algarve region. Built in 1919, Alfanzina Lighthouse helps ships navigate dangerous waters near the town of Carvoeiro. A popular tourist destination, the lighthouse also has become a symbol of the region's deep links to the sea. If you're lucky enough to live near a lighthouse, this weekend is the perfect time to pay it a visit.


date: 2024-08-18
filename: HuntingtonBeach_EN-US9892577517.jpg
title: Pier today ...
copyright: Huntington Beach Pier, California, at sunset (© Stan Moniz Photography/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
In today's image, we see the sun disappearing below the pier at Huntington Beach, California. First built in 1902, the pier was damaged by a storm and had to be rebuilt just nine years later. During World War II, a submarine lookout post was installed on the pier to help with the war effort. These days, it's a popular spot for fishing and watching surfers ride the waves out in the Pacific Ocean.


date: 2024-08-19
filename: FlightMuseum_EN-US0151236175.jpg
title: An old dream takes flight
copyright: Museum of Flight, Seattle, Washington (© George Rose/Getty Images)
story:
Established in 1939 to honor Orville Wright's birthday, National Aviation Day kicks off a week-long celebration of America's long history of flight. Pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright designed, built, and flew the world's first engine-powered airplane near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, in 1903. America's love of flight, however, goes all the way back to 1793, when President George Washington watched a hot air balloon launch in Philadelphia.


date: 2024-08-20
filename: TetonSunrise_EN-US0849252457.jpg
title: A grand view
copyright: Sunrise at Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming (© Kurt Budliger/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Mind-blowing beauty is one reason people keep coming back to Wyoming and the Grand Teton National Park. Named 'les trois tétons' by early French trappers, the park was created in 1929 by conservationists including John D. Rockefeller Jr. It is home to a virtually untouched ecosystem of plants and animals, such as grizzly bears, wolves, bison, moose, and bald eagles.


date: 2024-08-21
filename: NazcaBooby_EN-US0971401791.jpg
title: Waiting to 'Galápa-go'
copyright: Nazca boobies, Wolf Island, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador (© Tui De Roy/Minden Pictures)
story:
The Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific are a paradise for wildlife. Habitats range from arid regions to tropical rainforests. Because these islands are so isolated, many of the species that live here are not found anywhere else in the world. One species found in abundance is the Nazca booby, pictured here on Wolf Island. The name might raise a few eyebrows, but it actually comes from the Spanish word 'bobo,' meaning clown, because of the birds' clumsy demeanor when they're walking.


date: 2024-08-22
filename: OceanCityMD_EN-US1389904046.jpg
title: The morning glow
copyright: Ocean City, Maryland, at sunrise (© Kevin Olson/Amazing Aerial Agency)
story:
Here is a beautiful coastal getaway offering endless fun and adventure—welcome to Ocean City, Maryland. Ocean City was a quiet fishing village until 1875, when the Atlantic Hotel opened its doors, marking the town's transformation into a burgeoning resort destination. Today, it is a popular vacation spot, with an iconic 3-mile-long boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and amusement parks. Pristine sandy beaches stretching over 10 miles are perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or building sandcastles, and the ocean waters beckon for a refreshing swim. Ocean City is a charming retreat that draws visitors back time and again.


date: 2024-08-23
filename: PrasatPhanom_EN-US7990643175.jpg
title: Doorway to the past
copyright: Prasat Phanom Rung temple ruins, Buriram province, Thailand (© Banjongseal324/Getty Images)
story:
Today, let us step into the Phanom Rung Historical Park in Buriram province, Thailand. Here, Khmer architecture and history come to life. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, this remarkable site served as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva. It is on the rim of an extinct volcano, offering views of the surrounding paddy fields and the towering Dongrek Mountains of Cambodia in the distance.


date: 2024-08-24
filename: KatahdinWoods_EN-US8182768375.jpg
title: All about the woods and waters
copyright: Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Penobscot County, Maine (© Cavan Images/Alamy)
story:
Welcome to Katahdin, where dense woodlands and pristine waterways stretch out as far as the eye can see. Covering nearly 87,500 acres, this new national monument was established eight years ago today. Maine's logging industry was a big part of this region for over a hundred years but declined toward the end of the 19th century. Efforts to preserve its landscape were spearheaded by philanthropist Roxanne Quimby. She started buying land near Baxter State Park in 2001 and donated it to the federal government in 2016, ensuring its preservation for future generations.


date: 2024-08-25
filename: SwiftcurrentLake_EN-US8272209593.jpg
title: Preserving paradise
copyright:
Sunrise over Swiftcurrent Lake, Glacier National Park, Montana (© Jason Savage/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
Join us as we celebrate the American wilderness on National Park Service Founders Day. Today we honor the foresight of visionaries who spearheaded the creation of the NPS. This organization was established by President Woodrow Wilson to conserve wildlife, maintain natural landscapes, preserve historical artifacts, and offer educational programs. You can enjoy this day by visiting one of 429 national parks in the country and diving into ranger-led programs, volunteer efforts, and celebratory events to learn more about the history.


date: 2024-08-26
filename: PalmyraAtoll_EN-US8399787979.jpg
title: Idyllic island escape
copyright: Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, Central Pacific Ocean (© Ian Shive/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Welcome to this eco-travelers' paradise in the middle of the Pacific. Situated halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa, the Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2001 to conserve, manage, and restore the nation's fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats.


date: 2024-08-27
filename: YoungCaiman_EN-US8572688559.jpg
title: Life's good in the swamp!
copyright: Young black caiman, Tambopata National Reserve, Peru (© Maxime Aliaga/Minden Pictures)
story:
Today's image features a black caiman, South America's stealthy river giant, in the Tambopata National Reserve of Peru. These caimans are the largest species in the alligator family, growing up to 20 feet and weighing as much as 1,000 pounds. Their dark color helps them blend into the murky depths. These carnivorous creatures thrive in freshwater environments such as slow-moving rivers, lakes, and seasonally flooded savannas. From these waters, they hunt for birds, fish, turtles, and occasionally big mammals. Black caimans play an important role in making sure ecosystems stay balanced by keeping the populations of their prey under control. More caimans mean fewer piranhas, which attack cattle, and fewer capybaras, which can cause crop damage.


date: 2024-08-28
filename: ParalympicsParis_EN-US0355511969.jpg
title: Games on
copyright: Montmartre and Sacre Cœur, Paris, France (© Tuul & Bruno Morandi/Getty Images)
story:
The Summer Paralympic Games get underway in Paris today. Over 4,000 athletes with a range of disabilities from all around the world will meet in the French capital to compete across 549 different events. For its first time hosting the Summer Paralympics, the city has got something special in store for the opening ceremony. Delegations from 184 nations will parade down the iconic Champs-Élysées to the Place de la Concorde, rather than entering a stadium. The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960. Twenty-three nations took part, competing in eight sports, including wheelchair basketball and Para athletics.


date: 2024-08-29
filename: CastellfollitSpain_EN-US8880313790.jpg
title: A Catalan cliffhanger
copyright: Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia, Spain (© Eloi_Omella/Getty Images)
story:
Perched on the edge of a basalt cliff above two rivers, today's image takes us to Castellfollit de la Roca, in the Spanish region of Catalonia. This town is not for the faint-hearted: There's a 160-foot 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.


date: 2024-08-30
filename: WhaleSharkDay_EN-US8979838463.jpg
title: Being gentle to the giants
copyright: A whale shark in Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua, Indonesia (© Andy Lerner/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Today we’re celebrating the world's largest fish, the whale shark. These gentle giants can grow up to 40 feet long, with one reaching a record 61.7 feet. Found in tropical oceans, these filter feeders glide through the water, mouths wide open, straining plankton and small fish. The patterns on their dotted, starry skin are 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.


date: 2024-08-31
filename: DjanetAlgeria_EN-US9175224323.jpg
title: Dune days and desert haze
copyright:
Rock formations and sand dunes in the Sahara, Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria (© Airpano/Amazing Aerial Agency)

story:
From the Mediterranean coast to the vast Sahara, Algeria in North Africa has a wide variety of landscapes. Today, we're exploring the area around the Tassili n'Ajjer plateau. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its rock formations and cave art. More than 15,000 ancient engravings, some dating back 12,000 years, depict scenes of daily life, hunting, and mystical beings.


date: 2024-09-01
filename: ThamesLondon_EN-US9385705885.jpg
title: Row your boat gently down the Thames
copyright: River Thames, London, England (© Puthipong Worasaran/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to the Totally Thames Festival in London, England. Each year, it brings together communities, artists, and nature enthusiasts in a month-long tribute to the river. Highlights for 2024 include the annual boat marathon, Great River Race, and the Clean Thames Challenge.


date: 2024-09-02
filename: KansasMural_EN-US9504361321.jpg
title: Workers of the world, relax
copyright:
'Power of the Titans' mural by Andrei Krautsou, North Kansas City, Missouri (© Stephen Taylor/Alamy)

story:
Take a load off this Labor Day weekend. One of 11 federal holidays, Labor Day honors America's workers and is celebrated on the first Monday of September. Its origins are rooted in late 1800s efforts to recognize the contributions the country's workers, and labor activists ultimately helped establish the 40-hour work week and weekends. President Grover Cleveland made the US holiday official in 1894. Today, many Americans celebrate the long weekend, which is often considered the unofficial end of summer, by grilling, hanging out with friends and family, and going to parades.


date: 2024-09-03
filename: AlpineLakes_EN-US9676616320.jpg
title: Unspoiled beauty for all
copyright:
Crystal Lake in the Enchantments, Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington (© Mitch Pittman/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
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. While conservation efforts like the creation of national forests and parks began in the late 1800s, untamed wilderness had dwindled to only 2.5% of the nation's land by the 1960s. To reverse this trend, Zahniser wrote most of what became the Wilderness Act. Signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson on September 3, 1964, it today protects more than 109 million acres—5% of the land in the US.


date: 2024-09-04
filename: DuskyOwls_EN-US9845705930.jpg
title: Birds of a feather hoot together
copyright: Dusky eagle-owls, Pakistan (© zahoor salmi/Getty Images)
story:
As daylight fades, dusky eagle-owls, the silent hunters seen in today's image, emerge from their nests. These primarily nocturnal raptors were snapped in Pakistan and can be found in the forests and scrublands across South and Southeast Asia. An impressive wingspan of 15–17 inches, piercing yellow eyes, and exceptional hearing help them to catch small mammals and birds with precision in dim light. Measuring up to 2 feet 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.


date: 2024-09-05
filename: TIFF2024_EN-US9586964456.jpg
title: Lights, camera, TIFF '24!
copyright: Toronto city skyline seen from Lake Ontario, Canada (© Roberto Machado Noa/Getty Images)
story:
Cinema aficionados, assemble. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) gears up to dazzle with its 49th edition in Canada's largest city, seen in today's image. Since it began in 1976, the TIFF has become one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world. Attendees range from seasoned directors to rising stars and eager cinephiles and the festival has hosted premieres of many critically acclaimed films, including 'The Fabelmans' and 'Black Swan.'


date: 2024-09-06
filename: GlenariffPark_EN-US3914128007.jpg
title: 'Wood' you believe this view?
copyright:
Ancient beech tree, Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim, Northern Ireland (© Dawid K Photography/Shutterstock)

story:
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 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.


date: 2024-09-07
filename: SantaCruzHummer_EN-US4047958707.jpg
title: Humming along
copyright: Anna's hummingbird, Santa Cruz, California (© yhelfman/Getty Images)
story:
Every first Saturday in September, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers gather to celebrate National Hummingbird Day. This day is dedicated to appreciating these tiny, agile birds and their role as a pollinator in our ecosystem. 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.


date: 2024-09-08
filename: StockholmLibrary_EN-US4140921886.jpg
title: A global chapter
copyright: Interior of the Stockholm Public Library, Sweden (© Andrei Hrabun/Alamy)
story:
'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.


date: 2024-09-09
filename: IguazuRainbow_EN-US4361499337.jpg
title: Rainbow waves in 'big water'
copyright: Iguazu Falls at the border of Argentina and Brazil (© AirPano LLC/Amazing Aerial Agency)
story:
Want to witness waterfalls 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.


date: 2024-09-10
filename: BridgeLisbon_EN-US4458392664.jpg
title: From skyline to water
copyright: Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon, Portugal (© Achim Thomae/Getty Images)
story:
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.


date: 2024-09-11
filename: ManhattanMemorial_EN-US4528393468.jpg
title: Patriot Day
copyright: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, New York City (© Antonino Bartuccio/Sime/eStock Photo)
story:
On Patriot Day, we are at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, where the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center once stood. The museum is 70 feet underground, beneath the memorial's waterfall pools in the footprints of the fallen towers. The names of those who died in the 2001 terrorist attacks and in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing are listed on bronze parapets surrounding these huge reflecting pools. Seven stories below the memorial, the museum tells the story of 9/11 through exhibits, artifacts, historical records, and personal accounts, remembering the victims and those who risked their lives to save others.


date: 2024-09-12
filename: DolphinReunion_EN-US4598756391.jpg
title: Have a fin-tastic day
copyright:
Dolphin pod near Réunion, overseas department of France, Indian Ocean (© Joost van Uffelen/Shutterstock)

story:
Grab your flippers—it's World Dolphin Day, a day to celebrate 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. But they are threatened by 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.


date: 2024-09-13
filename: PointReyes_EN-US4731803211.jpg
title: Finding safe haven
copyright:
Lighthouse at Point Reyes National Seashore, California (© RMB Images/Photography by Robert Bowman/Getty Images)

story:
This stunning 71,028-acre coastal haven on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County is a gem of the California coastline. Filled with scenic trails that wind through forests and along cliffs, it boasts breathtaking views and lots of wildlife. Point Reyes National Seashore also has a reputation as the most wind-swept spot on the Pacific Coast and the second-foggiest area in North America, so dress accordingly.


date: 2024-09-14
filename: RapaNuiSunrise_EN-US4872610843.jpg
title: Radiant Rapa Nui
copyright:
Sunrise at Ahu Tongariki, Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island, Chile (© Piriya Photography/Getty Images)

story:
Welcome to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, one of the world's most remote and enchanting paradises, roughly 2,330 miles west of mainland Chile. Famous for its iconic moai statues, Rapa Nui boasts breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Experts are divided on when the island's ancestral inhabitants first arrived from Polynesia, though many researchers suggest it was around the 8th century. Take in the mesmerizing 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, including four nearby islets.


date: 2024-09-15
filename: BalboaPark_EN-US5050015037.jpg
title: Celebrating Hispanic heritage
copyright: Casa del Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, California (© f11photo/Getty Images)
story:
From today, National Hispanic Heritage Month unfurls its vibrant celebrations of Hispanic Americans' contributions to US culture and society. The date coincides with the independence days of several Latin American nations, like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile. Established as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, it was expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.


date: 2024-09-16
filename: SunriseWallabies_EN-US5210230008.jpg
title: Wallabies on the watch
copyright:
Wallabies at sunrise, Adelaide River, Northern Territory, Australia (© Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images)

story:
Amid the hues of dawn, captured in today's image, two wallabies stand alert in a field near the Adelaide River in Australia's Northern Territory. These marsupials, smaller cousins of the kangaroo, are native to Australia and New Guinea. There are around 30 species of wallabies, including swamp, rock, and hare-wallabies. These sprightly mammals have strong hind legs that help them take impressive leaps and deliver powerful kicks if threatened. During mating season, male wallabies engage in boxing bouts in an attempt to grab females' attention. Social creatures, wallabies form small groups called 'mobs' for safety and mutual grooming. Their playgrounds are forests that echo with the thudding of their hops as they navigate their home range.


date: 2024-09-17
filename: MidAutumnSingapore_EN-US5283310908.jpg
title: Lanterns and mooncakes
copyright: Mid-Autumn Festival in Gardens by the Bay, Singapore (© Victor Y. Zhuo/Alamy)
story:
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, symbolizing 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.


date: 2024-09-18
filename: GujoHachiman_EN-US5502837623.jpg
title: Castle in the clouds
copyright: Gujō Hachiman Castle, Gifu prefecture, Japan (© ta2funk ito/500px/Getty Images)
story:
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.


date: 2024-09-19
filename: PiratePlayground_EN-US3254868743.jpg
title: Avast, landlubbers!
copyright:
Playground at the Obereversand Lighthouse in Dorum-Neufeld, Germany (© INGO WAGNER/DPA/AFP via Getty Images)

story:
Ahoy, mateys! It be International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Today, landlubbers and seafarers alike put on their tricorn hats and hoist the Jolly Roger. The day started in 1995 as a joke between two friends, John Baur and Mark Summers, but it got a boost in 2002 after they shared the idea with humorist Dave Barry, who promoted it in his syndicated column. Since then, it's become a day of fun—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, it's time to batten down the hatches, shiver your timbers, and unleash your inner pirate. Arr!


date: 2024-09-20
filename: OcracokeLight_EN-US3638306974.jpg
title: Light dawns on Ocracoke
copyright: Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina (© Chansak Joe/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This secluded island, with 16 miles of beaches, can only be reached by ferry or small plane. 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.


date: 2024-09-21
filename: MunichBeerfest_EN-US3708656793.jpg
title: Prost! Oktoberfest begins
copyright: Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, at sunset (© AllesSuper21/iStock/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we're raising a stein and saying Prost! Step into Munich, capital of the German state of Bavaria, for a celebration like no other. Oktoberfest, first held here in 1810, is a vibrant blend of Bavarian culture, tradition, and, of course, beer.


date: 2024-09-22
filename: AutumnCumbria_EN-US3797009731.jpg
title: Fall into reflection
copyright: Buttermere, Lake District National Park, England (© Alan Novelli/Alamy)
story:
Fall is in the air—officially. The September equinox marks the transition from summer to autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the Southern Hemisphere, spring is just beginning. The term 'equinox,' derived from Latin, means 'equal night.' It marks one of two points during the year when the sun sits directly over the equator, and the Earth receives roughly equal amounts of daylight and darkness.


date: 2024-09-23
filename: IcebergOtter_EN-US3869054406.jpg
title: Otter-ly amazing
copyright: Sea otter, Prince William Sound, Alaska (© Gerald Corsi/Getty Images)
story:
We're celebrating Sea Otter Awareness Week with this laid-back little guy in Prince William Sound, Alaska. Sea otters are native to the northern and eastern coasts of the North Pacific Ocean. They're expert foragers, diving to the seabed to find food and using rocks to crack open shellfish, one of the few animals that use tools. There used to be as many as 300,000 sea otters in the wild, but they were heavily hunted for their dense fur for almost two centuries. By 1911, it is thought that only around 2,000 sea otters were left. Thankfully, an international hunting ban and conservation efforts have helped them rebound in their historic habitat to an estimated 125,000. Despite this success, some populations continue to struggle, and sea otters are still an endangered species. So, unlike our homepage star, we can't relax on sea otter conservation just yet.


date: 2024-09-24
filename: SkaftafellWaterfall_EN-US3934499773.jpg
title: Falling for this view?
copyright: Waterfall in Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland (© Nopasorn Kowathanakul/Getty Images)
story:
In Iceland's Skaftafell, fall 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's dramatic landscape was formed over thousands of years by the fierce interplay of volcanic fire and glacial water. Here, the glacier Skaftafellsjökull, a branch of Iceland's largest ice cap Vatnajökull, 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 resembling a heart from afar, this waterfall inspired the design of Iceland's National Theatre and the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík.


date: 2024-09-25
filename: GiantSequoias_EN-US4034909984.jpg
title: The realm of ancient giants
copyright: Giant sequoias, Sequoia National Park, California (© Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock)
story:
On this day in 1890, Sequoia National Park was founded 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 an astonishing 275 feet. Named after the American Civil War general William Tecumseh Sherman, it's not only tall but is also more than 36 feet 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.


date: 2024-09-26
filename: LittleToucanet_EN-US4236893251.jpg
title: Flying colors
copyright:
Blue-throated toucanet, Los Quetzales National Park, Costa Rica (© Oscar Dominguez/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
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. These non-migratory birds use their dexterous toes to navigate branches, while their distinctive bills deftly forage for fruits, insects, and small lizards.


date: 2024-09-27
filename: VeniceAerial_EN-US4386837118.jpg
title: Above the floating city
copyright:
Aerial view of the Grand Canal and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy (© Bachir Moukarzel/Amazing Aerial Agency)

story:
The Santa Maria della Salute church in Venice is steeped in history. As a plague devastated the city in 1630, its leader, Doge Nicolò Contarini, vowed to build a majestic church dedicated to the Virgin Mary if the city was spared. In 1631 the epidemic ended, and construction began. The church, built in the Baroque style, was completed around 50 years later, a lifelong project for architect Baldassare Longhena.


date: 2024-09-28
filename: CoyoteGulch_EN-US1769933001.jpg
title: Golden glimpses
copyright:
Cottonwoods seen through an arch in Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Utah (© Stephen Matera/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
National Public Lands Day takes place every fourth Saturday of September. Today is all about preserving public lands, which can be anything from national parks to urban green spaces. On this day, entry fees to many federal lands are waived, and those who participate in conservation activities like cleanups or restoring historic structures receive free entry coupons for future visits to these locations. This day has grown substantially since it began in 1994. Its first celebration was started by three national agencies and drew 700 volunteers. By 2010, the number of volunteers had increased to 170,000, spreading across more than 2,000 sites.


date: 2024-09-29
filename: ConnecticutBridge_EN-US4557226937.jpg
title: Connecting Connecticut
copyright: West Cornwall Covered Bridge over the Housatonic River, Connecticut (© pabradyphoto/Getty Images)
story:
Covered bridges like West Cornwall Covered Bridge, pictured in today's image, were designed with roofs and siding to protect their wooden structures from weathering, greatly increasing their durability. While many were built in the 19th century, few have survived to the present day, and the ones that have are often preserved for their historical and visual significance.


date: 2024-09-30
filename: WalrusNorway_EN-US4658961878.jpg
title: Go with the floe
copyright:
Herd of walruses in northern Spitsbergen, Svalbard archipelago, Norway (© AWL Images/Danita Delimont)

story:
What's the perfect thing to do under the midnight sun? If you're a walrus, the answer might be taking a quick dip with your crew, chowing down on clams and mussels, and then sunbathing on a beach or ice floe. Welcome to Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Our homepage stars were photographed in the waters off Spitsbergen, the largest of the archipelago's nine islands, where male and female herds are found year-round. Male walruses can reach almost 12 feet long and weigh more than 2,600 pounds. During mating season, they use this girth to fight among themselves for dominance over groups of females, called harems.


date: 2024-10-01
filename: HalfDomeYosemite_EN-US4890007214.jpg
title: Dome sweet dome
copyright: Last light on Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California (© Adam Burton/Alamy)
story:
There's a reason why famed American photographer Ansel Adams fell in love with Yosemite National Park: vistas like today's image of Half Dome. The park, in central California's Sierra Nevada range, has been a popular destination for artists, mountaineers, settlers, and nature lovers since the mid-1800s. To protect it from logging and overgrazing by cattle, Congress designated Yosemite a national park on this day in 1890. It's one of the most visited parks in the US, with more than 3 million visitors a year.


date: 2024-10-02
filename: WindRiverAlaska_EN-US4993335597.jpg
title: Wind River's wild dance
copyright: Wind River, Brooks Range, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska (© Design Pics/Danita Delimont)
story:
Ever wonder how some of our rivers stay unspoiled? It's thanks to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, which was signed into law on this day in 1968. This legislation created the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System which preserves rivers with exceptional natural, cultural, and recreational qualities.


date: 2024-10-03
filename: TajMahalReflection_EN-US5053333041.jpg
title: Grand gesture of love
copyright: Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India (© Tanarch/Getty Images)
story:
Let's explore the Taj Mahal, on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. This ivory-white marble mausoleum was commissioned in 1631 by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, to honor his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.


date: 2024-10-04
filename: EuropaMoon_EN-US8269574935.jpg
title: A blue moon
copyright: Jupiter's icy moon Europa (© NASA/JPL-Caltech/SETI Institute)
story:
Today, we're blasting off to explore the cosmos. World Space Week celebrates the science and technology that go into exploring our universe, and how it benefits us back on Earth. Space exploration has helped scientists develop new medicines, create new power sources, and even improve farming techniques. This year's theme is Space and Climate Change; events will be held in 83 countries to champion the role of space technology in understanding and monitoring Earth's climate.


date: 2024-10-05
filename: ElephantTeacher_EN-US8363933732.jpg
title: Follow the teacher!
copyright: African elephants in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya (© Neil Bowman/Minden Pictures)
story:
Today we celebrate the real influencers—Happy World Teachers' Day! Every year on October 5, we recognize the essential role of teachers in nurturing young minds, while acknowledging the challenges they face.


date: 2024-10-06
filename: SoranoItaly_EN-US2208208147.jpg
title: The stone town of Tuscany
copyright: Sorano, Tuscany, Italy (© Luigi Vaccarella/eStock Photo)
story:
Sorano is a serene medieval village perched atop a cliff in the Italian province of Grosseto, southern Tuscany. Walking through the age-old cobblestone streets, one can explore the Fortezza Orsini, a fortress-turned-museum that dates back to the 11th century. Visitors engage with centuries-old tales of power and defense with each step they take inside the fort. Near Poggio San Rocco and Poggio Croce hills lies a necropolis—a large, ancient burial site—with well-preserved Etruscan tombs that hint at the area's long history. The Etruscan civilization inhabited this area and flourished in what is now Tuscany and Umbria between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE.


date: 2024-10-07
filename: ElbePhilharmonic_EN-US8658450086.jpg
title: Celebrating architecture
copyright: The Elbphilharmonie concert hall in Hamburg, Germany (© Canetti/Shutterstock)
story:
Build your excitement—it's World Architecture Day! Today's image features the Elbphilharmonie on the Grasbrook peninsula of the Elbe River in Hamburg, Germany. Designed by the Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron, this concert hall is a modern architectural marvel perched atop an old brick warehouse from 1963. A centerpiece of the new Hafencity development, it's Hamburg's tallest inhabited building—there are 45 luxury apartments in the upper floors—reaching a height of 354 feet.


date: 2024-10-08
filename: MototiOctopus_EN-US8820270832.jpg
title: Ocean's eight
copyright: Mototi octopus, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia (© Howard Chew/Alamy)
story:
Today, we celebrate a creature with three hearts and the uncanny ability to change color at will: the octopus. Octopuses are cephalopods, marine animals like squids and cuttlefish that have tentacles. Among their many species is the small and shy mototi octopus, pictured here. It was discovered in 1999 around Rapa Island in the South Pacific and is known for the 'fake eyes' or ocelli—vibrant blue and yellow rings—between its eyes and arms. Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia, Australia, and Okinawa in Japan, mototi octopuses are masters of disguise. They usually have a dull orange-cream-brown color but when alarmed, they can quickly shift to striking maroon with white stripes along their body and arms. Also known as poison ocellate octopuses, these cephalopods are highly venomous. But you don't need to worry about running into one, because they tend to be shy and solitary, often hiding in crevices, shells, or man-made objects like bottles and cans.


date: 2024-10-09
filename: AspensColorado_EN-US9105602602.jpg
title: Colorado in full color
copyright: Aspens in the White River National Forest, Colorado (© Jason Hatfield/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Slender white trunks reaching skyward and leaves fluttering even in the gentlest breeze—aspen trees are a symbol of the American wilderness. Found across the western states, especially in Utah and Colorado, these trees are the most widespread native species in North America. Their fall foliage is breathtaking, with their leaves turning a vibrant yellow that lights up the landscape, as seen in today's photo, which was taken in the White River National Forest, Colorado.


date: 2024-10-10
filename: KochiaJapan_EN-US9866955641.jpg
title: Rolling into fall
copyright: Kochia, Ibaraki prefecture, Japan (© DigiPub/Getty Images)
story:
This fiery tumbleweed is kochia, which transforms landscapes when it takes on hues of red, orange, and pink in the fall. In the spring and summer, this annual herb resembles a fluffy green ball. Native to parts of Europe and Asia, kochia, also known as 'summer cypress,' is now widespread throughout the world. But it has a special place in Japan's Hitachi Seaside Park, seen in today's image, where around 30,000–40,000 kochia bushes are planted each year. These ornamental plants create a surreal landscape for visitors to wander through and also hold significance in Japanese culture. Historically, they have been dried to create brooms. However, not all parts of the kochia are destined to sweep the Earth—some are used for food. The plant's nuts, 'tonburi,' often called 'field caviar,' are a prized garnish.


date: 2024-10-11
filename: CelticColours_EN-US9284206130.jpg
title: Celebrate the Celts
copyright: Cape Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia, Canada (© Cavan Images/Alamy)
story:
The Celtic Colours International Festival begins today in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada. 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 colors are most vibrant, the festival has blossomed into a nine-day extravaganza that coincides with the warm red, orange, and yellow autumn foliage.


date: 2024-10-12
filename: QuebecDuck_EN-US9387855720.jpg
title: It's time to wing it!
copyright: Wood duck, Quebec, Canada (© Maxime Riendeau/Getty Images)
story:
Celebrate our traveling feathered friends on World Migratory Bird Day! Some migrations are truly astounding. The bar-tailed godwit embarks on a 6,835-mile nonstop flight across the Pacific from Alaska to New Zealand. The tiny ruby-throated hummingbird, weighing less than a nickel, makes the trip all the way across the Gulf of Mexico. Migratory birds navigate the globe, instinctively knowing when and where to move to exploit seasonal abundance. The Arctic tern outshines them all with its intercontinental journey from pole to pole, covering roughly 25,000 miles in its annual round trip.


date: 2024-10-13
filename: AlcazarSeville_EN-US9523655289.jpg
title: The splendor of Seville
copyright: Courtyard of the Maidens, Alcázar of Seville, Spain (© Danny Lehman/Getty Images)
story:
Today we're stepping into the heart of the historic empire of Islamic Spain. The Royal Alcázar of Seville, in the southern region of Andalusia, stands on the site of a 10th-century citadel, which was expanded over the following 200 years. When Christian forces captured the city in 1248, this historic palace was almost totally rebuilt in the Mudejar style, which takes inspiration from the intricate patterns and decorative motifs found in Islamic architecture. Within the Alcázar, there are several courtyards lined with delicately carved columns. One of these is the Patio de las Doncellas, or Courtyard of the Maidens, pictured here today.


date: 2024-10-14
filename: PuebloNankoweap_EN-US9631367700.jpg
title: Honoring Indigenous Peoples
copyright:
Ancestral Pueblo granaries at Nankoweap, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (© Andrew Peacock/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
The second Monday of October is used by many to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day, as an alternative to Columbus Day, held on the same date. It highlights the customs and heritage of the Indigenous Peoples who lived in North America before the arrival of European settlers, and the devastating impact colonization had upon them.


date: 2024-10-15
filename: MaraMigration_EN-US9704012409.jpg
title: The race for life
copyright: Great wildebeest migration at Mara River, Kenya (© Ayzenstayn/Getty Images)
story:
They say the grass is always greener on the other side, and no one takes that more literally than the wildebeests of the Serengeti in Tanzania. Every July, roughly 2 million of these determined grazers, along with zebras and other herbivores, set off on a journey north to the Masai Mara in Kenya in search of lush pastures and fresh water. The great migration, considered one of the seven wonders of the natural world, is a safari spectacle where survival is the prize.


date: 2024-10-16
filename: FossilsDorset_EN-US9782204825.jpg
title: Unearthing the past
copyright:
Fossils of belemnites and ammonites, Jurassic Coast, Dorset, England (© Nature Picture Library/Alamy)

story:
If you're a fan of dinosaurs, trilobites, or fossilized shells, then National Fossil Day is the perfect excuse to get your hands dirty. Celebrated on the second Wednesday of October, this day is dedicated to promoting the scientific and educational value of fossils. From towering T. rexes to tiny ammonites, these ancient remains help scientists piece together the puzzle of our planet's history.


date: 2024-10-17
filename: MarsDunes_EN-US3465209450.jpg
title: Astronauts, grab your skis!
copyright: Frost-covered dunes on the surface of Mars (© NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona)
story:
Mars, the fourth planet from the sun, is often referred to as the 'Red Planet' due to its rusty hue from the iron oxide-rich soil dust. The planet is dotted with frosty dunes, largely located in the high latitudes of the northern plains. Mars' atmosphere is composed of nearly 96% carbon dioxide, which is why carbon ice forms on the surface. These dunes showcase the dynamic interaction between Mars' thin atmosphere, its surface, and seasonal temperature changes.


date: 2024-10-18
filename: CentralParkAutumn_EN-US2354288950.jpg
title: Falling for Central Park
copyright: Autumn in Central Park, Manhattan, New York (© mapman/Shutterstock)
story:
Every autumn, many of the 18,000 trees in Central Park, New York, are painted in shades of yellow, red, and orange. It's one of Central Park's most photographed seasons, and fall in the park has provided iconic backdrops for movies like 'When Harry Met Sally…' and 'Hair.' Trees sense the coming of winter not only by temperature, but by the angle at which sunlight hits their leaves. Because of New York's buildings, the unique interaction of light, shadows, and temperatures often results in fall foliage occurring later in the park than the rest of the city.


date: 2024-10-19
filename: DenderaTemple_EN-US2605709637.jpg
title: Uncovering the past
copyright: Temple of Hathor, Dendera Temple Complex, Qena, Egypt (© Nick Brundle Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Today, dig deep and unearth your inner Indiana Jones or Lara Croft on International Archaeology Day. The event celebrates archaeology's benefits for society, and includes exhibits and hands-on excavations, some of which run throughout the month. Many US national and state parks, historic landmarks, and local museums also hold events.


date: 2024-10-20
filename: SmilingSloth_EN-US2707836219.jpg
title: Hanging in there
copyright: Three-toed sloth in Costa Rica (© Harry Collins/Getty Images)
story:
The world's slowest mammal takes the spotlight today on International Sloth Day. Celebrated on October 20, it highlights their lives, conservation efforts, and the threats they face, including shrinking habitats. There are six living sloth species, divided into two types: three-toed sloths and two-toed sloths.


date: 2024-10-21
filename: AutumnCypress_EN-US2771131028.jpg
title: Standing tall in fall
copyright: Cypress trees in George L. Smith State Park, Georgia (© Chris Moore/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
The sturdy, swamp-loving, cypress trees pictured in the mist on our homepage can grow over 100 feet tall. These towering specimens are found in George L. Smith State Park, which spans 1,634 acres in Emanuel County, Georgia. The park's centerpiece is a 412-acre mill pond, a favorite spot for fishing and canoeing. Out of its waters grow pond cypress and bald cypress trees, two varieties that are native to the southeastern US. Winding through the park are over 7 miles of nature trails, leading visitors through sandy landscapes past a bird sanctuary and tortoise habitat. The hardwood trees here are a haven for woodpeckers and other birds, while the soft soil provides ideal burrowing ground for tortoises. No matter the season, this park promises a peaceful retreat for all.


date: 2024-10-22
filename: MonsterDoor_EN-US2973387472.jpg
title: Fearsome façade
copyright: Palazzo Zuccari, Rome, Italy (© Photon-Photos/Getty Images)
story:
At the top of the Spanish Steps in Rome, take a left underneath the imposing Catholic church. Down an unassuming side street, there's a surprise waiting for you: a house of monsters. Welcome to the Palazzo Zuccari, a 16th-century palace where myths seem to come to life on its façade—grotesque faces swallow up its doors and windows. Federico Zuccari, who built the palace, was well-versed in monsters. His painting of the Last Judgment in Florence Cathedral and his illustrations of Dante's Inferno are replete with mythical beings. The monster door originally led to the palazzo's garden because Zuccari enjoyed making his guests experience the contrast between the scary entrance and the beautiful serenity of the garden. These days, the door leads to the Bibliotheca Hertziana, a library specializing in Italian art history, from the Middle Ages to the modern day, which has occupied the site of the garden since 1912.


date: 2024-10-23
filename: MadameSherriCastle_EN-US3066456106.jpg
title: Stairway to nowhere
copyright: Madame Sherri Forest and the ruins of an old castle, New Hampshire (© yggdrasill/Shutterstock)
story:
Madame Sherri Forest in Chesterfield, New Hampshire, is a captivating destination steeped in history and natural beauty. It was once the site of an extravagant house built in the 1930s by Madame Antoinette Sherri, a flamboyant 1920s costume designer known for her lavish parties. Madame Sherri's dramatic arrivals in town, often in a chauffeur-driven Packard, draped in furs, became the talk of the locals. As her fortune declined, her 'castle' fell into disrepair and was vandalized. In 1959, she returned to find her property in ruins and never came back. A fire destroyed the house in 1963, leaving behind only the stone foundation, an iconic staircase, and a large fireplace leading to a lone chimney.


date: 2024-10-24
filename: BodieCalifornia_EN-US3185568116.jpg
title: Ghosts of the gold rush
copyright: Bodie State Historic Park, Mono County, California (© Julien McRoberts/Tetra Images, LLC/Alamy)
story:
In the ghostly silence of Bodie, California, it feels like time stands still. This mining camp became a booming gold rush town in the 1870s, after a cave-in revealed a rich vein of gold. Bodie was named after W.S. Bodey, a prospector who died in a blizzard before seeing the town's rise. When large deposits were found there, it grew to nearly 10,000 residents, with saloons, dance halls, and breweries lining its streets. But as the gold ran dry, so did the town's fortunes. The mines closed, the population dwindled, and by 1915, the place was abandoned. Bodie's streets are now empty, its wooden buildings frozen in decay.


date: 2024-10-25
filename: MontBlancMassif_EN-US3284638409.jpg
title: The heights of horror
copyright: The Mont Blanc massif, near Chamonix, France (© Simon Schöpf/Getty Images)
story:
Picture yourself at the highest peak in the Alps, where the air is crisp and the views are breathtaking. The towering presence of Mont Blanc has left an indelible mark on literature, most notably on Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein.' The last Friday of October is Frankenstein Friday, honoring Shelley's literary genius and the fascinating creature born from her imagination. 'Frankenstein' was conceived during a ghost story challenge. In 1816, an 18-year-old Shelley, along with fellow writers Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Polidori, and Lord Byron, spent a stormy summer in Switzerland. Forced inside by incessant rain, she penned the tale of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature. A pivotal scene in the novel takes place on a glacier near Mont Blanc, where Victor is confronted by his monstrous creation. This setting, with its surreal beauty and treacherous terrain, perfectly captures a sense of awe and terror.


date: 2024-10-26
filename: GhostForest_EN-US3389955484.jpg
title: Into the woods
copyright: Gespensterwald, Nienhagen, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, Germany (© mauritius images GmbH/Alamy)
story:
On Germany's Baltic coast lies the Gespensterwald, which means 'Ghost Forest,' seen in today's image. This spine-tingling forest covers about 445 acres, with its gnarled beech, hornbeam, ash, and oak trees twisting toward the sky. The salty sea air, wind, and the moist climate helped mold the trees' distorted shapes, which look particularly haunting at night. Visitors to this forest in the Mecklenburg-West Pomerania region, can brave the trails alone or sign up for a storytelling session where actors dressed as ghosts bring local legends and folktales to life. Photographers and nature enthusiasts alike find inspiration in the eerie silhouettes etched against the sky, immortalized in countless pictures.


date: 2024-10-27
filename: PolarBearHug_EN-US3461212514.jpg
title: A mother's warmth in the cold
copyright: Polar bear mom and cub, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (© Design Pics/plainpicture)
story:
Polar Bear Week champions the Arctic's majestic predator, one of nature's greatest hunters. Established by Polar Bears International, it highlights the challenges they face due to climate change, particularly the rapid loss of Arctic Sea ice. At this time of year, polar bears gather in Churchill, Canada—known as the 'polar bear capital of the world.' Here, bears wait for Hudson Bay to freeze so they can start hunting for seals, their primary food source.


date: 2024-10-28
filename: PumpkinMist_EN-US3686565863.jpg
title: It's carving time
copyright: Pumpkin field, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (© Shaun Cunningham/Alamy)
story:
As fall covers the landscape with amber hues and the chill of Halloween approaches, it's time to start carving some spooky jack-o'-lanterns. Originally from Ireland and Scotland, this craft was brought to America by immigrants who initially made lanterns from turnips and potatoes but later found pumpkins more plentiful and easier to carve. Once hollowed out and lit with candles, the gourds were transformed into flickering defenses against evil spirits.


date: 2024-10-29
filename: GreatOwl_EN-US3778222109.jpg
title: Hoots and haunts
copyright: Great horned owl (© Mark Newman/Getty Images)
story:
The Halloween season is upon us, so let's meet one of the holiday's icons: the great horned owl. With its keen vision, eerie vocalizations, and silent flight, this owl has historically been revered and feared. In folklore and mythology, owls were considered symbols of wisdom and omens of death. On Samhain, the Celtic precursor to Halloween, the owl was believed to be the kin of roaming spirits.


date: 2024-10-30
filename: HauntedEdinburgh_EN-US3906244993.jpg
title: A haunting history
copyright: View of Edinburgh Castle from a churchyard in Scotland (© Chris Dorney/Alamy)
story:
If you're looking for a Halloween destination that combines history with a hefty dose of hauntings, Edinburgh Castle is the place to be. Positioned high on an extinct volcano, the castle's royal connections go back nearly 1,000 years, and its walls have witnessed wars, royal births, executions, and other dramas. But what really sets it apart, is its reputation as one of Scotland's most haunted spots.


date: 2024-10-31
filename: GargoyleParis_EN-US4049828558.jpg
title: Stone-cold stares on Halloween
copyright: Chimera of Notre-Dame de Paris, France (© scaliger/Getty Images)
story:
Do you sometimes get spooked? If you do, that means you have a healthy sense of fun and fear. And what better day of the year than Halloween to indulge in all things scary? The holiday we know today traces its roots to ancient traditions, including the Celts' Samhain, the Romans' Feralia, and medieval Christian observances. Today, costumed people mingle in the streets, not unlike their ancestors who donned animal skins to divine the future or celebrate saints and martyrs.


date: 2024-11-01
filename: HovenweepRuins_EN-US3883549583.jpg
title: Celebrating America's Native heritage
copyright: Pueblo ruins, Hovenweep National Monument, Utah (© Alan Majchrowicz/Getty Images)
story:
Today marks the start of Native American Heritage Month. Throughout November, we honor the history, traditions, stories, and languages of Native Peoples. The Indigenous Peoples of North America have played a significant role in shaping our country, including the food we eat and the medicines that heal us. In addition to being a celebration, this month is also a time to reflect on the issues that Native Peoples face, including civil and voting rights, land access, and education.


date: 2024-11-02
filename: BisonYellowstone_EN-US4259322652.jpg
title: From near extinction to national icon
copyright: American bison in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (© Ian Shive/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Once upon a time, in the boundless grasslands of North America, there roamed creatures of great strength and majesty—the American bison. These animals were a key part of life for many Native American tribes, providing food, clothing, and tools. Their population dwindled perilously low in the late 1800s, falling from as many as 60 million to fewer than 1,000 due to excessive hunting and disease. Enter a group of conservationists, ranchers, and Native Americans who stepped in to save the species. Now, over 500,000 bison roam again, many in protected areas like Yellowstone National Park, featured in today's image. Today, on National Bison Day, observed every first Saturday in November, we honor these noble creatures—a testament to the American spirit and the monumental conservation efforts to save them.


date: 2024-11-04
filename: CumbriaAutumn_EN-US4102686749.jpg
title: Worth a thousand words
copyright: Grasmere, Lake District, Cumbria, England (© Thomas Molyneux/Getty Images)
story:
A place where poetry, history, and nature blend—welcome to Grasmere in England's Lake District. The village was once the cherished residence of the celebrated poet William Wordsworth, who described Grasmere, with its valley and lake of the same name, as 'the loveliest spot that man hath found.' Here, visitors are greeted by old cottages and homes built from local bluish-green slate. Dove Cottage, Wordsworth's humble abode from 1799 to 1808, and the adjacent museum offer a dive into the poet's life. His later residence, Rydal Mount, continues the story just a short journey away. The heart of the village is St. Oswald's Church, which dates to the 13th century and is Wordsworth's final resting place. Not far from the church, the aroma of the renowned Grasmere Gingerbread, made from a secret recipe, will set visitors' mouths watering.


date: 2024-11-05
filename: DCSunrise_EN-US2459275186.jpg
title: Out of many, one
copyright: Autumn sunrise over the National Mall, Washington, DC (© WLDavies/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
story:
It's time to get out and vote! In 1845, Congress designated the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November as the day Americans vote for most federal offices. Prior to this, states held elections on a date of their choosing within about a month of early December, which created issues with early and late elections. For convenience and to save money, many elections for state and local offices are also held on Election Day.


date: 2024-11-06
filename: ShiShiBeach_EN-US4231457607.jpg
title: Shades of sunset
copyright: Shi Shi Beach in Olympic National Park, Washington (© T.M. Schultze/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Olympic National Park, established in 1938, offers an escape into unspoiled wilderness. It covers nearly 1,440 square miles on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. With a labyrinth of ecosystems that range from glacier-capped mountains to temperate rainforests, the park is a home for wildlife and an International Biosphere Reserve. Within it lies Shi Shi Beach, a serene stretch where the Pacific laps against sea stacks and sandy shores, as seen in today's image.


date: 2024-11-07
filename: CanadaWolves_EN-US4285635290.jpg
title: Wolves in the wild
copyright:
Vancouver Coastal Sea wolves in Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia, Canada (© Nick Garbutt/Alamy)

story:
Amidst the mist-covered cedars and Sitka spruces of Canada's Great Bear Rainforest, the Vancouver Coastal Sea wolf roams free. These canines thrive in this ecosystem in British Columbia, which stretches from the north of Vancouver Island to the Alaskan border. This unique subspecies of the gray wolf is specific to the region and leads a semi-aquatic lifestyle, swimming between islands in search of food. Unlike other wolf species, they have a marine-based diet, consisting of fish, clams, mussels, crabs, otters, and seals. These animals live in packs, communicating with each other through growls, barks, and whines, so they're often heard before they are seen.


date: 2024-11-08
filename: GlacialRivers_EN-US4356459123.jpg
title: From the land of fire and ice
copyright: Aerial view of glacial rivers in Iceland (© rybarmarekk/Shutterstock)
story:
Iceland's glacial rivers have shaped the landscape here in the land of fire and ice over thousands of years. The rivers seen in today's image are formed from the meltwater of vast glaciers like Vatnajökull, Langjökull, and Hofsjökull. Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Iceland, covers over 3,000 square miles—approximately 10% of the country's landmass. As the glaciers melt, the water carries fine sediments, creating a braided river system with a milky appearance that contrasts with the earthy tones of the volcanic terrain. Every spring and summer, the rivers swell with seasonal meltwater, continually shaping and reshaping the land. Aerial views reveal their intricate patterns, interwoven across the terrain toward the North Atlantic Ocean. The water also powers hydroelectric power stations, reinforcing Iceland's status as a leader in sustainable energy.


date: 2024-11-09
filename: MoroccoMilkyWay_EN-US4411505209.jpg
title: Cosmic views over earthly hues
copyright: Milky Way, Aït Benhaddou, Morocco (© Cavan Images/Getty Images)
story:
Get ready for a starry Moroccan night! Stargazing here is truly magical, as the vast skies and minimal light pollution transform each evening into a dazzling display. Every star you see is part of our galaxy, the Milky Way, which appears as a creamy band of light in the darkest skies. In today's image, you can see this cosmic beauty glowing over Aït Benhaddou, a historic fortified village known as a ksar, in the Ouarzazate province of Morocco. This site was first fortified in the 11th century. It was a key stop on the ancient caravan trade route connecting the Sahara and the city of Marrakesh. Perched on a hillside by the Ounila River, this village is a cluster of buildings encircled by a protective wall, complete with towers and a gate.


date: 2024-11-10
filename: YucatanFlamingos_EN-US4470232432.jpg
title: Flamboyance in flight
copyright: Caribbean flamingos, Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico (© Claudio Contreras/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
Ever seen a group of flamingos take to the skies? If you have, there's a good chance they were Caribbean flamingos, also known as American flamingos, as seen in Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, in today's image. Flamingos are referred to as a flamboyance when in a group, but they can also be called a stand, colony, or pat. The Caribbean flamingo is the largest flamingo species in the Americas and the only one native to North America. These vibrant birds are typically found around brackish and saltwater areas, like marshes, estuaries, and along coastlines. Because of their pink color, they're often confused with roseate spoonbills. However, their long necks and bent bills distinguish them from other wading birds like the great blue heron and wood stork.


date: 2024-11-11
filename: VeteranReflections_EN-US4567357121.jpg
title: Heroes among us
copyright: Mural Wall, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, DC (© Steve Tulley/Alamy)
story:
Freedom is not free, and nobody understands that better than veterans. Today, America honors its military men and women for their service. The holiday originally celebrated a temporary halt in fighting between Allied nations and Germany during World War I—the official end of the war came the following year in 1919. Armistice Day, as it was later named, commemorated this respite, and it became a federal holiday in 1938. A few years later, America fought in World War II, and later, the Korean War. As a result, Congress amended the holiday in 1954, exchanging the word 'Armistice' with 'Veterans' to include veterans of all the country's wars.


date: 2024-11-12
filename: CoveArch_EN-US4653050772.jpg
title: Underneath the arches
copyright: Double Arch seen through Cove Arch, Arches National Park, Utah (© Jeff Foott/Minden Pictures)
story:
Red as far as the eye can see and clear blue skies overhead. Welcome to Arches National Park, Utah. The story of this otherworldly landscape starts 65 million years ago when a dry seabed stood here. Over time, geological forces warped and squeezed the land, twisting the sandstone into lumps and bumps. Later, wind and water carved out the arches, pinnacles, fins, and balanced rocks that now stand in this area. The park has more than 2,000 natural stone arches, the highest concentration of these structures anywhere on Earth. In today's image, we can see two of them: Double Arch, as seen through Cove Arch. The larger arch of Double Arch spans 144 feet and is 112 feet tall, the tallest and second-longest of the park's arches.


date: 2024-11-13
filename: KelpForest_EN-US4745308334.jpg
title: The forests of the sea
copyright:
California sea lion in a forest of giant kelp, Baja California, Mexico (© Claudio Contreras/Minden Pictures)

story:
Take a stroll along almost any marina from Costa Rica to Alaska, and you'll likely hear the playful barks of sea lions echo through the air. California sea lions, like the one pictured, are a common sight basking in the sun along the rocky shores of North America's western coast. These marine mammals, belonging to the pinniped group, are often mistaken for seals. An easy way to distinguish between them is by looking at their ears—sea lions have visible flaps, seals don't.


date: 2024-11-14
filename: ManarolaItaly_EN-US4826543395.jpg
title: A cliffside story
copyright: Manarola, Cinque Terre National Park, Liguria, Italy (© John_Silver/Shutterstock)
story:
Known for its rows of pastel houses that stretch down to the Mediterranean Sea, Manarola, seen in today's image, is a picturesque village on the Italian Riviera. Perched on the rugged cliffs of the Ligurian coast, it's one of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name 'Manarola' might have evolved from the Latin 'Magna rota,' which means 'large wheel,' a nod to the village's historical mill wheel.


date: 2024-11-15
filename: YiPengLanterns_EN-US2889801198.jpg
title: Hope takes flight
copyright: Yi Peng lantern festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand (© tampatra/Getty Images)
story:
As twilight descends today, Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest city, will come alive with thousands of glowing lanterns for Yi Peng. Held on the full moon of the second month of the Lanna lunar calendar, this celebration is about letting go of negativity and embracing new beginnings. The highlight of the festival is the release of 'khom loi' or 'khom loy'—floating paper lanterns—into the night sky, which becomes a sea of warm, golden lights. People often write their hopes and dreams on the lanterns. They gather around temples and palaces to send their wishes skyward, hoping for good fortune in the year to come.


date: 2024-11-16
filename: FrieslandNetherlands_EN-US3770890281.jpg
title: Mud, sea, and sky
copyright: Wadden Sea coast, near Moddergat, Friesland, Netherlands (© Ron ter Burg/Minden Pictures)
story:
If you've ever dreamed of walking on water, or something close to it, the Wadden Sea is the place for you. Tracing over 300 miles along the coast of the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique landscape of tidal flats and wetlands. In fact, it is the world's largest unbroken intertidal zone—underwater at high tide and exposed at low tide—of sand and mud flats. The area is also a playground for aquatic species such as houting fish, brown trout, and white-beaked dolphins, and is home to birds like waders and herons.


date: 2024-11-17
filename: RedStag_EN-US3910525623.jpg
title: The hart of the Highlands
copyright: Red deer stag in the Caledonian Forest, Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands (© Terry Whittaker/Alamy)
story:
Striking appearance, strong presence, and impressive antlers—meet the red deer, photographed in the ancient forests of Glen Affric, one of Scotland's most beautiful valleys. Found across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa, this species is Britain's largest land mammal and an integral part of the Caledonian pinewoods, Scotland's coniferous forests. From featuring in cave art found throughout Europe to medieval hunting traditions, red deer have always held a special place in the human imagination. In many parts of the world, their image is synonymous with the wild, free spirit of nature. Glen Affric, with its lochs, moorlands, and mountains, provides the perfect habitat for these magnificent creatures. This national nature reserve is also popular with hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts.


date: 2024-11-18
filename: PorthcawlLighthouse_EN-US4147042402.jpg
title: Guiding the way since 1860
copyright: Porthcawl Lighthouse, Wales (© Leighton Collins/Alamy)
story:
With waves crashing against its sturdy base and a stormy sea swirling around, this lighthouse in Porthcawl, on the south coast of Wales, has been standing resilient since 1860. At 30 feet tall, Porthcawl Lighthouse, designed by the eminent engineer James Walker, is often pictured being battered by waves when storms hit. The town's rugged coastline, with its hidden rocky coves, has always posed a perilous challenge to sailors. Porthcawl Lighthouse was built to help guide the increasing maritime traffic along the Bristol Channel. This cast-iron lighthouse was the last one in the UK to be powered by coal and gas. Although it was converted to electric power in 1997, the lighthouse still maintains its historical charm.


date: 2024-11-19
filename: TasmansArch_EN-US4274981499.jpg
title: An arch that rocks
copyright: Tasmans Arch, Tasmania, Australia (© Gary Bell/Minden Pictures)
story:
Ready for a coastal adventure? Welcome to Tasman National Park in Tasmania, an island state of Australia about 150 miles off its southeastern coast. Spanning more than 41 square miles, this park features dramatic cliffs and distinctive columns of dolerite rock. Tasmans Arch, seen in today's image, is a standout example. Shaped over time by the Tasman Sea, it was once the roof of a massive sea cave. The sea's pressure, combined with air, sand, and stones, slowly pried open the vertical cracks in the cliff, dislodging chunks of rock. The cave kept growing, deepening, and lengthening, until it eventually gave way, leaving behind this towering natural bridge. Tasmans Arch is named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who also lends his name to the state of Tasmania.


date: 2024-11-20
filename: BeyondSaype_EN-US4398054405.jpg
title: United for World Children’s Day
copyright:
Giant land art painting 'Beyond Crisis' by Saype, Leysin, Switzerland (© VALENTIN FLAURAUD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

story:
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 a global day of action for children, by children, which marks the UN's adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Kids are raising their voices on issues ranging from conflict and climate change to mental health and discrimination, in a bid to influence the future.


date: 2024-11-21
filename: LionCubs_EN-US4742616367.jpg
title: Sunrise on the savanna
copyright: Lion cubs at sunrise, South Africa (© Ruan Springorum/Getty Images)
story:
Curious about what it's like to be a lion cub living in the wild? Let's explore their life. African lion cubs like those featured here, sunbathing in the wilderness of South Africa, start life tucked away in a secluded den. Blind at birth, these little ones are vulnerable in the first few weeks of their lives and depend entirely on their mothers. At around 8 weeks old, they meet the rest of the pride and learn to socialize so they can find their place in the group. After they hit 6 months, they begin to go out hunting with adults, learning essential skills through real-life adventures.


date: 2024-11-22
filename: ZafraCastle_EN-US5032917939.jpg
title: Castle on a crag
copyright: Castle of Zafra, Guadalajara province, Spain (© Eduard Gene/Getty Images)
story:
Perched atop a sandstone outcrop high in the Sierra de Caldereros stands the Castle of Zafra. When the Christian kingdoms of northern Spain took the region from its Moorish defenders in the 12th century, they built this castle on the site of an older fortress to defend the borderland between the two powers. Over the years, it withstood countless battles of the Reconquista—the military campaigns waged by Christian kingdoms against Muslim rule in Spain—and of the Castilian Civil War of the 14th century.


date: 2024-11-23
filename: FibonacciAloe_EN-US5137471725.jpg
title: Nature's secret code
copyright: Spiral aloe, Kangaroo Island, Australia (© Michael Melford/Alamy)
story:
On Fibonacci Day, mathematicians and scientists honor one of their own: Leonardo Bonacci, better known as Fibonacci. The medieval mathematician popularized the Hindu-Arabic numeral system, with its use of zero, decimal points, and 10 numbers instead of the ponderous Roman numeral system. He's most famous, however, for his sequence of numbers: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8... By adding the first two numbers, you arrive at the third, and adding the previous two numbers, you arrive at the next number, and so on. Disregarding the zero, the first four numbers correspond to today's date, 11/23.


date: 2024-11-24
filename: SonomaCoast_EN-US5218026576.jpg
title: Tides and twilight
copyright: Sonoma Coast State Park, California (© Rachid Dahnoun/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Sonoma Coast State Park offers a picturesque retreat with its sandy beaches, natural arches, and secluded coves. Established in 1934, the park encompasses 17 miles of Northern California coastline between Jenner and Bodega Bay. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot seals, sea lions, whales, and a variety of birds like towhees, warblers, finches, sparrows, and orioles. History buffs will enjoy exploring the sea stack formation with rubbing marks believed to have been made by mammoths that roamed the area 40,000 years ago. The park is also home to historical sites like Bodega Head, where Russians built a fort in the early 1800s.


date: 2024-11-25
filename: AmboseliGiraffes_EN-US9072366924.jpg
title: Life in the wild
copyright: Masai giraffes, Amboseli National Park, Kenya (© Art Wolfe/DanitaDelimont.com)
story:
Masai giraffes roam the vast landscapes of Amboseli National Park in Kenya, as seen in today's image. At 18 feet or more, giraffes are the world's tallest land mammals. Along with prehensile tongues that are more than a foot and a half long, they use their impressive height to eat foliage found almost 20 feet from the ground. They're also faster than you might think, being able to sprint over short distances up to 37 mph. Giraffes are common in East Africa and can be seen grazing in grasslands, woodlands, and reserves.


date: 2024-11-26
filename: TrulliGrove_EN-US5919292259.jpg
title: Beneath ancient olive trees
copyright: Olive grove, Valle d'Itria, Puglia, Italy (© Massimo Santi/Shutterstock)
story:
Today, we're not just offering you an olive branch—we've got the whole tree. November 26 is World Olive Tree Day, so we're taking some time to appreciate this amazing plant. Olive trees were first cultivated in the eastern Mediterranean around 8,000 years ago. From there, they were introduced to the Greek islands and mainland by the Phoenicians, then farther afield, reaching Spain and the western edge of the Mediterranean by around 1000 BCE. The olive branch has been a symbol of peace since ancient times, and olive trees have been grown for their oil, wood, and fruit for millennia.


date: 2024-11-27
filename: SemoisRiver_EN-US6047540380.jpg
title: The giant's resting place
copyright: Tombeau du Géant (Giant's Tomb) in autumn, Bouillon, Belgium (© David Briard/Getty)
story:
Tombeau du Géant in Bouillon, Belgium, offers a picturesque panorama for those who make the journey to see it. The Giant's Tomb, as the hill is known in English, resembles a giant resting in the crook of the 130-mile-long Semois River. The name originates from a local legend about a Gallic giant, Treviso, who chose to leap off the cliffs of Rocher des Gattes rather than be captured by Roman soldiers. This vantage point, popular among hikers and road-trippers, provides a view that shifts dramatically with the seasons. During autumn, the landscape dons warm colors, as seen in today's image, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.


date: 2024-11-28
filename: TomTurkeys_EN-US6212893518.jpg
title: Stuffed with gratitude
copyright: Wild turkeys, New York (© John Cancalosi/Alamy)
story:
Today, many Americans will spend time with friends and family, giving thanks and enjoying what some consider to be the best meal of the year. The tradition dates back to English colonists who celebrated the first Thanksgiving in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621. Their treacherous journey from England the year before and their first winter claimed half of the colonists, and the rest might have died too if not for the generosity of the Wampanoag people. To celebrate their first corn harvest and thank the Native Americans who helped them, the colonists held a three-day feast.


date: 2024-11-29
filename: MtStMichel_EN-US6641012356.jpg
title: An island of time and tide
copyright: Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, France (© Captain Skyhigh/Getty Images)
story:
A tidal marvel and a slice of medieval life all rolled into one rocky outcrop—welcome to Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, northern France. The story of this 'Wonder of the West' goes back to the early 8th century, when Archangel Michael was said to have appeared to the bishop of Avranches in a vision. The divine message was clear: build a sanctuary on this rock. Taking this angelic advice seriously, the bishop laid the foundations of what would eventually become the abbey that dominates the island today. Over the centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site grew in size and reputation, attracting monks, pilgrims, and invaders alike.


date: 2024-11-30
filename: KilchurnAutumn_EN-US6737063910.jpg
title: Reflecting Scotland's heritage
copyright: Kilchurn Castle reflected in Loch Awe, Argyll and Bute, Scotland (© Tom Mackie/plainpicture)
story:
Put on your tartan and let the bagpipes play—it's St. Andrew's Day! Scotland's national day is a public holiday there—though not everyone takes the day off. A fisherman by trade, St. Andrew—also the patron saint of several other countries including Greece, Barbados, Romania, and Ukraine—was one of the 12 apostles and a key figure in Christianity. Though he never set foot in Scotland, his influence is immortalized in the country's flag, a white saltire on a blue background, said to represent the cross on which he was martyred.


date: 2024-12-01
filename: IcebergsAntarctica_EN-US6829804691.jpg
title: Protecting the last great wilderness
copyright: Icebergs, Antarctica (© Art Wolfe/DanitaDelimont.com)
story:
Today, Antarctica Day shines a spotlight on one of the world's most remarkable international agreements—the Antarctic Treaty. Signed in 1959 by 12 nations, this treaty designated the entire continent as a demilitarized zone, with a special focus on promoting scientific research and collaboration.. This day honors the spirit of global cooperation, reminding us of the collective responsibility to protect the planet's last great wilderness.


date: 2024-12-02
filename: SnowMoose_EN-US6949674639.jpg
title: A wild stare
copyright: Female moose, Denali National Park, Alaska (© Cavan Images/Alamy)
story:
Have you ever experienced the awe of seeing an Alaskan moose? The largest moose species, these creatures can weigh 1,400 pounds and reach heights of up to 6 feet at the shoulder. Male moose are called bulls, females are known as cows, and their young are referred to as calves. One thing that really sets moose apart is their incredible antlers, which are only sported by the males.


date: 2024-12-03
filename: JaipurFort_EN-US7275752190.jpg
title: Pillars of the past
copyright: Sattais Katcheri (Court of 27 Pillars), Amber Fort, Rajasthan, India (© Yury Taranik/Shutterstock)
story:
Grand palaces and towering forts shape the landscape of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Among the most prominent is Amber Fort, also known as Amer Fort or Amber Palace, which is perched on a small hill about 7 miles from the main city of Jaipur. Within its regal walls lies the Sattais Katcheri, which means 'court of 27 pillars,' featured in today's image. Amber Fort was built in 1592 and it served as the residence of the maharajas, or rulers, of the area. Famous for its unique blend of Hindu, Rajput, and Mughal architectural styles, it is constructed from pale yellow and pink sandstone alongside white marble. This masterpiece is spread across four levels, each with its own courtyard. Part of the wider Hill Forts of Rajasthan UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amber Fort invites visitors to explore a rich blend of history and royalty.


date: 2024-12-04
filename: RhinosKenya_EN-US7514650014.jpg
title: On the front line of extinction
copyright: Male white rhinoceroses, Lake Nakuru, Kenya (© Ingo Arndt/Minden Pictures)
story:
It's Wildlife Conservation Day—an important reminder to celebrate and defend our planet's incredible biodiversity. Many species face extinction, including African forest elephants, Cross River gorillas, and Yangtze finless porpoises. Since its launch in 2012, this special day has highlighted illegal wildlife trade and other threats that animals face. It also draws attention to the need for stronger long-term solutions.


date: 2024-12-05
filename: MonoTufa_EN-US7607210506.jpg
title: The rise of tufa
copyright: Tufa formations in Mono Lake, California (© Susanna Patras/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Shaped by the slow passage of time, tufa—a type of porous limestone—emerges as one of nature's most spectacular formations. While these towers can be found in many places, today's image shows some at Mono Lake in Mono County, California. These structures develop when calcium-rich fresh water, flowing into the lake from several creeks and streams, mixes with the lake's alkaline water. Over centuries, this interaction caused calcium carbonate to build up, forming tufa spires above the lake's surface. To preserve the tufa towers, the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve was established in 1981.


date: 2024-12-06
filename: HelsinkiDusk_EN-US7738977648.jpg
title: Happy birthday, Finland!
copyright: Old Town in Helsinki, Finland (© Oleksiy Mark/Shutterstock)
story:
Happy Independence Day, Finland! On this day in 1917, the Nordic nation declared its independence from Russia. Finland had been a grand duchy of the Russian Empire since 1809, and it was part of the Swedish Empire for the previous 600 years. However, during the Russian revolutions of 1917, Finnish nationalists saw their chance to establish an independent nation. After several months of negotiations, Finland declared independence on December 6.


date: 2024-12-07
filename: NewHavenBridge_EN-US7922266620.jpg
title: Remembering Pearl Harbor
copyright: Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge, New Haven, Connecticut (© Enzo Figueres/Getty Images)
story:
Today, the country remembers 'a date which will live in infamy.' President Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke these words to Congress in 1941, the day after Japan's attack on the Pearl Harbor naval base in Oahu, Hawaii. The destruction inflicted on the US Pacific Fleet is one of military history's most devastating surprise attacks. More than 3,500 US servicepeople were killed or wounded, and eight battleships were destroyed or damaged in less than two hours. Following Roosevelt's speech came a declaration of war and the entrance of the US into World War II. Congress named December 7 National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in 1994.


date: 2024-12-08
filename: ReopeningNotreDame_EN-US8084146311.jpg
title: The comeback of Notre-Dame
copyright: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France (© Julien Fromentin/Getty Images)
story:
In the heart of Paris stands one of the city's most enduring icons: Notre-Dame Cathedral. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries on the Île de la Cité—an island in the Seine—Notre-Dame has witnessed centuries of French history, from the Hundred Years' War to the French Revolution, and beyond. Although it was chosen by Napoleon as the site of his coronation as emperor in 1804, by the early 19th century, the cathedral was in a state of disrepair. However, one novel changed its fortunes: 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' by Victor Hugo, published in 1831. The popularity of this book helped encourage a restoration project that renewed the cathedral's former beauty.


date: 2024-12-09
filename: GuanacosChile_EN-US8209106662.jpg
title: Attitude and altitude
copyright: Guanacos, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile (© Floris van Breugel/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
Prick up your ears and crane your neck—it's National Llama Day. Part of a family that includes camels, alpacas, and guanacos, llamas have long been domesticated in South America because of their hardiness and ability to thrive on the bleak vegetation in the mountains and plateaus of the Andes. At up to 6 feet tall and weighing up to 400 pounds, they were used primarily as pack animals for about 6,500 years. They were also bred as a source of food, hides, tallow for candles, dung for fuel, and fabric. While inferior to alpaca and guanaco wool, llama fleece is soft, warm, durable, and fairly lightweight. It's used for clothing, rugs, and rope.


date: 2024-12-10
filename: CornwallSnow_EN-US8476437458.jpg
title: The end? Not quite.
copyright:
The Cornish Coast Path covered in snow, Land's End, Cornwall, England (© Josef FitzGerald-Patrick/Getty Images)

story:
Windswept cliffs, rugged beauty, and dramatic ocean views—welcome to Land's End in Cornwall, England. Since ancient Greek times, when it was known as 'Belerion' or 'Place of the Sun,' or in Arthurian legends about the lost land of Lyonesse, Land's End has always been a place of fascination. Land's End is the most southwestern point on mainland Britain. It's often the starting point or end of charity races that run the length of the island of Great Britain from Land's End to John o'Groats at Britain's northeastern tip.


date: 2024-12-11
filename: DolomitesSky_EN-US8624061239.jpg
title: The triumphant trio
copyright: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Sexten Dolomites, Italy (© Daniel Maran/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we celebrate International Mountain Day, an event to honor the towering giants of our planet. Among them are the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, or the 'Three Peaks of Lavaredo,' seen on the right in today's image. A part of the Sexten Dolomites in northeastern Italy, they're one of the most famous mountain groups in the Alps. 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 cut through the peaks, leaving the area with many remnants of the conflict, such as fortifications, trenches, tunnels, and commemorative plaques.


date: 2024-12-12
filename: WildPoinsettia_EN-US8728271702.jpg
title: 'Red-y' for the holidays
copyright: Wild poinsettia (aka Christmas flower) (© David Hosking/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
Here's the red poinsettia, one of the plants synonymous with the holiday season in the United States. With its striking star-shaped leaves, the poinsettia has become a symbol of Christmas cheer, brightening homes and public spaces during winter. Today, National Poinsettia Day celebrates the legacy of Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first US ambassador to Mexico, who introduced these vibrant plants to America in the 1820s. He discovered them while exploring the Taxco region in Guerrero. So taken by their beauty, he sent clippings back to his home in Charleston, South Carolina.


date: 2024-12-13
filename: ChristmasBudapest_EN-US0865695821.jpg
title: Advent at the basilica
copyright: Christmas market, St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest, Hungary (© Calin Stan/Shutterstock)
story:
As the holiday season kicks off, St. Stephen's Basilica becomes the dazzling centerpiece of one of Budapest's iconic Christmas markets. The fair buzzes with holiday spirit, offering a mix of Hungarian craft, festive décor, and local delicacies, capturing the essence of a traditional Christmas. The Advent Feast—an event held in the weeks leading up to Christmas and part of Hungary's holiday traditions—invites guests to savor dishes like chimney cakes, stuffed cabbage, and goulash soup, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. A highlight for many is the 3D light show projected onto the basilica's facade, a modern touch that brings this historic structure to life.


date: 2024-12-14
filename: NorthernHawkOwl_EN-US7592435350.jpg
title: 'Hoo' said that?
copyright: Northern hawk-owl, Canada (© pchoui/Getty Images)
story:
For 125 years, bird enthusiasts across North America have turned the holiday season into a festive, feathered affair with the Christmas Bird Count. Founded by ornithologist Frank Chapman as an eco-friendly twist on holiday hunting parties, this annual event replaced shotguns with binoculars. Since then, it has become one of the world's longest-running citizen science projects. Every year from December 14 to January 5, volunteers of all ages and birding skill levels come together to survey designated areas called 'circles.' Each circle has a 15-mile diameter, and participants count every bird they see or hear within it. The result is a colossal snapshot of bird diversity, with data collected from over 2,500 locations each season. It's a serious effort to track changes in bird populations, providing valuable data for scientists working to protect vulnerable species.


date: 2024-12-15
filename: MisurinaLake_EN-US7921587884.jpg
title: A lake of tears
copyright: Lake Misurina, Dolomites, Italy (© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images)
story:
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 5,700 feet above sea level, it is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, with its perimeter stretching more than 1.5 miles. 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 immortalized 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.


date: 2024-12-16
filename: SalzburgSnow_EN-US8262729220.jpg
title: Twinkling streets and icy peaks
copyright: Salzburg, Austria (© bluejayphoto/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we're in the Austrian city of Salzburg, a place that never goes out of style. The Advent season here creates a magical atmosphere, making it a truly unforgettable time to visit this city. Twinkling decorations bring the place to life, and the cozy scents of warm chestnuts, mulled wine, and freshly baked cookies mingle in the air. During this time, Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, a world-famous traditional Advent market, is hosted here. Seen on the hill in today's image is the Hohensalzburg Fortress, home to the popular Fortress Advent market, brimming with holiday cheer.


date: 2024-12-17
filename: ReinefjordenNorway_EN-US8636083241.jpg
title: A shore to adore
copyright: Traditional red fishermen's cabins on the shore of Reinefjorden, Norway (© Pilat666/Getty Images)
story:
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 color, 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 harbor framed by the towering mountain range. This village truly shines in winter, when you have the chance to see the northern lights twinkling in the night sky.


date: 2024-12-18
filename: NutcrackerBallet_EN-US8927830113.jpg
title: Yule really love this ballet
copyright: English National Ballet performing 'The Nutcracker' (© Caroline Holden/Alamy)
story:
Every holiday season, as snow begins to fall and Christmas lights twinkle in the night, the story of 'The Nutcracker' comes to life on stages around the world. Written by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1892, this beloved ballet is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's fairy tale 'The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.' Set on Christmas Eve, it follows a young girl named Clara, who goes on an adventure with the Nutcracker Prince as they battle the evil Mouse King. Many renowned ballet companies present their rendition of this classic every year, including the New York City Ballet, the Boston Ballet, and the English National Ballet, pictured here.


date: 2024-12-19
filename: SibiuRomania_EN-US9223739756.jpg
title: Twinkle town
copyright: Christmas market in Sibiu, Romania (© Calin Stan/Alamy)
story:
As the winter chill sets in, the city of Sibiu transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland as it hosts one of Romania's most popular Christmas markets. The Sibiu Christmas Market, known in Romanian as Târgul de Crăciun din Sibiu, is held in the central square from the end of November until early January. Sparkling strings of lights drape across the square, seen in today's image, creating a canopy that bathes the cobblestone streets in a warm, festive glow. There also stands a beautifully lit Christmas tree, surrounded by charming wooden huts selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to locally made treats like cozonac, a traditional Romanian sweet bread; vin fiert, an aromatic mulled wine; and covrigi, a type of pretzel served warm and sprinkled with salt.


date: 2024-12-20
filename: SantaClausVillage_EN-US9527661842.jpg
title: He's coming to town...
copyright: Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland (© Smelov/Shutterstock)
story:
Nestled in Rovaniemi, Finland, and pictured in today's image, Santa Claus Village is a magical year-round destination where visitors can step into the enchanting world of Christmas. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this village offers unique experiences, like meeting Santa Claus himself or crossing the Arctic Circle line. Children and adults alike can meet Santa's loyal reindeer and explore a vibrant collection of Christmas-themed attractions designed to delight visitors of all ages.


date: 2024-12-21
filename: BavarianWinter_EN-US9813996975.jpg
title: Midwinter wonderland
copyright: Loisach River at Lake Kochelsee, Bavaria, Germany (© Christian Back/eStock Photo)
story:
The winter solstice is here. Today marks the shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere, while last night was the longest night of the year. This has been an important event for millennia, with evidence of celebrations going back as far as 10,000 BCE. Some of the world's most famous Stone Age monuments, including Stonehenge, are aligned with the point that the sun rises or sets on the winter solstice. Traditionally, it was a time for feasting and lighting of fires to symbolize the darkest day of the year. Ancient Germanic tribes celebrated the winter solstice by bringing evergreens into their homes as a symbol of the returning light and the coming spring.


date: 2024-12-22
filename: CrystalPier_EN-US0086755810.jpg
title: Surf, sand, and Santa
copyright:
Christmas tree at Crystal Pier, Pacific Beach, San Diego, California (© SamAntonioPhotography/Getty Images)

story:
Santa has plenty of runway to land, but good luck trying to find a chimney. Today, we're getting ready for Christmas at Pacific Beach in San Diego, California. While it might not snow here, there's still plenty of yuletide spirit leading up to Christmas in sunny Southern California. Among many beautiful examples on San Diego's Christmas Tree Trail is the 20-foot tree at the end of a festively decorated Crystal Pier.


date: 2024-12-23
filename: FestivusCranes_EN-US0396321898.jpg
title: Ready to let off some steam?
copyright: Red-crowned cranes in Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan (© Wirestock, Inc./Alamy)
story:
'A Festivus for the rest of us!' This is the unofficial motto of a non-commercial alternative to Christmas. Celebrated on December 23, Festivus was popularized by the TV show 'Seinfeld,' although it was actually invented by the family of one of the series' writers. The celebration centers around the unadorned aluminum Festivus pole. After dinner, the traditional Festivus 'airing of grievances' gets underway. This consists of telling friends and family the ways they've disappointed you over the year. This can provide some much-needed catharsis at what can be a stressful time of year. The day traditionally concludes with feats of strength. Once the head of the household has been pinned, Festivus is officially over. Those who embrace this farcical holiday welcome the opportunity to let off some steam amid the Christmas build-up chaos—much like these red-crowned cranes in Hokkaido, Japan.


date: 2024-12-24
filename: SantaSnowglobe_EN-US0704281966.jpg
title: Have yourself a very merry Christmas!
copyright: Christmas market scene in Germany (© Cyril Gosselin/Getty Images)
story:
Christmas markets in Germany are a cherished holiday tradition that welcome visitors into a magical world of twinkling lights, festive music, and delicious seasonal treats. These markets date back to the Middle Ages and are held in town squares throughout Germany, with iconic examples in cities such as Nuremberg, Munich, and Dresden. Each market displays unique regional crafts and festive customs. Here, guests can discover handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, and cozy winter accessories, along with specialties like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and roasted nuts—ideal for enjoying while immersing themselves in the enchanting atmosphere.


date: 2024-12-25
filename: ReindeerTrio_EN-US1000272747.jpg
title: Merry Christmas!
copyright:
Svalbard reindeer in Van Mijenfjorden NP, Norway (© Martin Zwick/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

story:
Deck the halls, it's Christmas time! Christmas Day is a holiday packed with joy, warmth, and cherished traditions. For many, it's a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, bringing family and friends together to exchange gifts, share meals, and enjoy festive décor. Beyond its spiritual roots, Christmas also lights up the season with beloved customs—decorating trees, caroling, and eagerly awaiting Santa's arrival. These traditions, blending both old and new, make the holiday a magical experience filled with connection and cheer.


date: 2024-12-26
filename: MouseholeXmas_EN-US1272999190.jpg
title: The holidays continue
copyright: Christmas lights at Mousehole Harbour, Cornwall, England (© ianwool/Getty Images)
story:
As the last notes of Christmas carols linger in the air, Boxing Day arrives. This day is celebrated in the United Kingdom, Canada, and several Commonwealth countries. In the past, it was customary for the wealthy to give boxes filled with gifts to their servants on the day after Christmas. The tradition evolved into a day for charitable giving to the less fortunate. Today, while the spirit of giving remains, it has transformed into a holiday about enjoying bustling sales and a lineup of soccer matches.


date: 2024-12-27
filename: LakeBledSnow_EN-US5836531079.jpg
title: Icy reflections and snow-dusted peaks
copyright: Lake Bled, Slovenia (© Kesu01/Getty Images)
story:
Lake Bled in Slovenia gets plenty of attention in summer, but winter? That's when things slow down in the best way. The lake's emerald waters take on a softer tone, and Bled Island, with its quaint church, looks straight out of a winter fairytale, as seen in today's image. The 1.3-mile lake, surrounded by the snow-dusted Julian Alps, was formed over 14,000 years ago through glacial and tectonic activity. The first signs of settlement on Bled Island date back to the New Stone Age (10,000 BCE to 3,000 BCE). Additionally, archaeologists uncovered an Early Medieval graveyard here from the 9th century CE. Today, it houses the Church of the Assumption—built in its current form near the end of the 17th century—where visitors ring the 'wishing bell' for good luck.


date: 2024-12-28
filename: CoralTurtle_EN-US6100263163.jpg
title: Shell-abrating a life
copyright:
A green sea turtle swims in the Pacific Ocean near the French special collectivity of New Caledonia (© Damsea/Shutterstock)

story:
Today is a big day for conservation—it's the anniversary of the Endangered Species Act. Passed in the US in 1973, this law was a game-changer, ensuring that economic growth wouldn't steamroll over species at risk of disappearing forever. For the first time, plants were given protection too, and the focus shifted from merely avoiding extinction to actively helping species recover to the point where they could thrive without protection.


date: 2024-12-29
filename: BorobudurBells_EN-US6354350828.jpg
title: On the sacred mountain
copyright: Borobudur Temple, Java, Indonesia (© Robertharding/Shutterstock)
story:
Imagine a colossal puzzle made from over 2 million stone blocks—that's Borobudur, seen in today's image. Built during the 9th century in the reign of the Shailendra dynasty—an influential ruling family in Southeast Asia—it's the world's largest Buddhist temple, standing tall on the island of Java, Indonesia. This ancient sanctum has withstood centuries of natural challenges, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, thanks to its advanced interlocking stone system. Historically, Borobudur was an important pilgrimage site. After being abandoned for centuries, it was rediscovered in the 19th century by the English lieutenant governor Thomas Stamford Raffles.


date: 2024-12-30
filename: MountFieldNP_EN-US6905459745.jpg
title: A park for all seasons
copyright:
Tasmanian snow gum and pandani plants near Lake Dobson, Mount Field National Park, Tasmania, Australia (© Whitworth Images/Getty Images)

story:
At the heart of Tasmania, an island state off the southeastern coast of Australia, lies Mount Field National Park. Covering more than 60 square miles, it's one of the state's oldest national parks. As you follow the winding road up through the park, you'll see a whole range of landscapes, from temperate rainforests full of some of the world's tallest eucalyptus trees to alpine moorland. These ever-changing views are what give the park its nickname, 'the park for all seasons.' One of the park's must-visit sites is Russell Falls, a three-tiered waterfall that plunges 190 feet.


date: 2024-12-31
filename: RioNewYear_EN-US7216341802.jpg
title: Midnight in Rio
copyright:
New Year's Eve fireworks over Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (© Wagner Meier/Getty Images)

story:
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 the Scottish folk song 'Auld Lang Syne' at the stroke of midnight in remembrance of old friends and past experiences. The new year is often personified as a baby in a tradition that dates back to ancient Greeks, and paired with an old man who represents the year that is ending.


date: 2025-01-01
filename: PolarBearSwim_EN-US7610036047.jpg
title: Have an ice New Year's Day
copyright: Polar bears at play in the Arctic (© Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock)
story:
Happy New Year's Day! Humans have celebrated the new year since at least 2000 BCE, but various cultures have chosen different days coinciding with equinoxes or lunar cycles. The Romans established January 1 as the beginning of the year in 153 BCE, but this fell out of favor throughout Europe during the medieval era. Since 1582 and the widespread adoption of the Gregorian calendar, however, much of the world now celebrates the new year today. In addition to watching fireworks, drinking champagne, and making resolutions in the wee hours of the morning, other global traditions include making noise, eating lucky foods, and giving gifts.


date: 2025-01-02
filename: ArdezSwitzerland_EN-US8405268165.jpg
title: The glistening village
copyright: Star trails over Ardez, Graubunden, Switzerland (© Roberto Moiola/Getty Images)
story:
Perched on a terrace above the Inn Valley at 4,790 feet, Ardez is a hidden gem in eastern Switzerland renowned for its deep cultural roots and stunning preservation of history. This picturesque village, starring in today's image, showcases the rich traditions and unique language of Switzerland's Romansh-speaking communities. Its homes are adorned with sgraffiti—decorative designs etched into plaster—and colorful murals, both iconic art styles of the Engadin region. Dating back to 840 when it was first referred to as Ardezis, the village's history includes Steinsberg Castle, originally owned by the Bishop of Chur. Though destroyed during the Swabian War in 1499, the castle's tower has been restored multiple times and stands today as a proud reminder of its past. In 1975, Ardez was chosen as a Swiss model village for its exceptional preservation efforts, which have kept its historic charm intact.


date: 2025-01-03
filename: TolkienOxford_EN-US6755564963.jpg
title: Ring in the fun
copyright: The Radcliffe Camera and All Souls College, University of Oxford, England (© atiger/Shutterstock)
story:
'Don't adventures ever have an end? I suppose not. Someone else always has to carry on the story.' Today, on Tolkien Day, fans around the world honor the master storyteller who crafted the epic adventures of Middle-earth: J.R.R. Tolkien. While Tolkien may have started the tale, it's his readers who carry it forward, generation after generation, diving into the pages of 'The Hobbit,' 'The Lord of the Rings,' and beyond. Tolkienists are encouraged to celebrate the author's birthday with a toast at 9 PM local time—to participate, all you must do is stand and raise a glass of your choice, say 'The Professor,' and take a sip.


date: 2025-01-04
filename: VietnamFalls_EN-US9133406245.jpg
title: A borderline paradise
copyright: Bản Giốc–Detian Falls on the Quây Sơn River, Vietnam (© Shane P. White/Minden Pictures)
story:
Welcome to a spot where rivers meet borders in the most stunning way: Bản Giốc–Detian Falls, featured in today's image. Tucked between the karst hills of Daxin County in China and Trùng Khánh district in Vietnam, these falls tumble along the Quây Sơn River. Over 95 feet tall and 980 feet wide, it holds the distinction of being the widest waterfall in Vietnam. Located just 169 miles north of Hanoi, this waterfall have gradually worn away their crest over the years, inching upstream. For most of the year, they flow as two distinct cascades, but come summer, when the rains swell the river, they merge into one big fall.


date: 2025-01-05
filename: PlumParakeet_EN-US9359235355.jpg
title: Head-turner in the treetops
copyright: Plum-headed parakeet at Shimoga, Karnataka, India (© Hira Punjabi/Alamy)
story:
Look up at the skies and experience the magic of birds—it's National Bird Day. Birds come in many shapes and colors, but few are as striking as the plum-headed parakeet, seen in today's image. Native to the Indian subcontinent, these birds are known for their swift, acrobatic flight and distinctive calls that echo through the air. There have been reports of plum-headed parakeets making their way to places like New York, Florida, and even parts of the Middle East.


date: 2025-01-06
filename: RavennaBasilica_EN-US9585765715.jpg
title: Divine depths
copyright: Flooded crypt, Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna, Italy (© Andrea Pucci/Getty Images)
story:
In the Italian province of Ravenna lies the Basilica of San Francesco, recognized for its beauty and historical significance. This Romanesque church, originally built in 450, features a sturdy square bell tower added in the 9th century, enhancing the basilica's exterior. Its design features three naves, divided by two rows of 12 columns each. Featured in today's image is the basilica's real showstopper: The basement crypt, or burial chamber, is a stunning model of early religious design. Complete with vaulted ceilings that slope down into rows of stone columns, its floor is a work of art itself. It's inlaid with beautifully intricate mosaic tiles that have withstood the test of time.


date: 2025-01-07
filename: BouldersNZ_EN-US0112829210.jpg
title: Rocks and rollers
copyright: Moeraki Boulders at sunset, South Island, New Zealand (© Douglas Pearson/eStock Photo)
story:
Are you ready to rock the new year? Today is Old Rock Day, a day for celebrating and learning about old rocks and fossils. Rocks are common and few of us take the time to consider how amazing they are. But forged in volcanoes or molded by millennia of pressure, these solid masses of minerals hold the key to understanding how our planet formed. Rocks can also contain fossils, the remnants of long-extinct organisms, which give scientists clues about what creatures and plants have lived on Earth during its 4.5-billion-year history.


date: 2025-01-08
filename: GreatWallStairs_EN-US0360405933.jpg
title: Step up your game
copyright: Snow on the Great Wall of China (© View Stock/Alamy)
story:
New year, new goals—so why not start by taking a step toward better health? On this National Take the Stairs Day, let's climb into the past. The Great Wall of China, one of the longest humanmade structures in the world, offers the perfect inspiration. Stretching more than 13,000 miles and dating back thousands of years, the ancient marvel in today's picture is a series of fortifications spanning rugged mountains, valleys, and deserts. Featuring steep trenches and watchtowers, parts of it were designed to keep invaders at bay. Hiking the Great Wall offers a unique glimpse into this historical landmark. The experience varies from well-preserved sections like Mutianyu to wild, unrestored parts such as Jiankou. Some steps are so high, they're more like steps on a ladder! Talk about a workout—taking these stairs could rival any modern fitness challenge.


date: 2025-01-09
filename: CarterMemorial_EN-US9400973867.jpg
title: Honoring Jimmy Carter
copyright:
The US Capitol dome with flags flying at half-staff in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, Washington, DC (© J. David Ake/Getty Images)

story:
Thursday, January 9 is a national day of mourning in the United States in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29 at 100 years old. After his lying in state at the Capitol, a funeral for the 39th president will be held today at Washington National Cathedral. The federal government will be closed today, as will other institutions, including the New York Stock Exchange. Our photo shows the Capitol dome on December 30, 2024, with flags flying at half-staff in honor of the longest-lived US president.


date: 2025-01-10
filename: BubbleLake_EN-US6558545411.jpg
title: Bubbles, bubbles everywhere
copyright: Abraham Lake, Alberta, Canada (© Basic Elements Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Ever heard of frozen bubbles? Abraham Lake in Alberta, Canada, has them during the winter, and they're not just beautiful—they're science in action. Created in 1972, Abraham Lake is a human-made reservoir that spans more than 20 square miles along the North Saskatchewan River. Thanks to glacier-fed waters from the Rocky Mountains, the lake stays transparent even in the coldest months. Glacial meltwater carries fine sediment that scatters sunlight, while natural filtration through rocks keeps pollutants to a minimum.


date: 2025-01-11
filename: MeknesMorocco_EN-US6991915839.jpg
title: Arches of a bygone era
copyright: Heri es-Swani in Meknes, Morocco (© Calin Stan/Shutterstock)
story:
An imperial city in northern central Morocco, Meknes is steeped in history. Once the capital of Morocco under Sultan Ismail Ibn Sharif of the Alawi dynasty in the 17th century, it's known for its massive walls, grand gates, and structures built to last centuries. Meknes reflects the Moroccan style of architecture, with one of its most impressive landmarks being Heri es-Swani, seen in today's image.


date: 2025-01-12
filename: CrescentTail_EN-US7217745417.jpg
title: Sharp vision in the depths
copyright: Crescent-tail bigeye fish in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia (© Fred Bavendam/Minden Pictures)
story:
Say hello to the crescent-tail bigeye, a fish as eye-catching as its name suggests. With large, wide eyes and a distinctive tail shaped like a crescent moon, it's hard to miss. Measuring about 20 inches long, it has a sleek body and a protruding lower jaw with small conical teeth. Its eyes are adapted to the low-light conditions of deep waters, helping it spot prey and avoid predators. This fish mainly feeds on smaller fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates, fueling its active lifestyle as it patrols the reefs and hunts for food.


date: 2025-01-13
filename: CoastalWales_EN-US9397534673.jpg
title: 'Welsh' you a Happy Hen Galan!
copyright:
Cottage with Tŵr Mawr Lighthouse in the background, Ynys Llanddwyn, Wales (© Westend61 on Offset/Shutterstock)

story:
Who says New Year's Day has to be on January 1? In Wales, the clocks turn back—figuratively—to celebrate Hen Galan, or the 'Old New Year,' on January 13. As part of this tradition, Calennig, meaning 'New Year's gift' in Welsh, plays a central role, linking the celebration to customs from the Julian calendar era. Even after most of the world switched to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, some Welsh communities clung to their old ways. Traditionally, the day involves children going door-to-door, singing songs, and offering good wishes in exchange for gifts like coins, food, or sweets. A unique feature is its clove-decorated apples. These aren't for snacking, though; they're miniature symbols of luck and prosperity.


date: 2025-01-14
filename: CadizSpain_EN-US9699586606.jpg
title: Calmness overload
copyright:
Village of Zahara de la Sierra overlooking Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir, Cádiz province, Spain (© SEN LI/Getty Images)

story:
Zahara de la Sierra, a stunning whitewashed village in the hills of Cádiz province in Spain, offers a blend of history and nature in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. Perched on a rocky hilltop, the village seen in today's image overlooks the Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir and the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977. Its Moorish castle ruins and 15th-century tower reflect its history as a medieval fortress. Stroll through streets lined with flower-filled balconies, visit the church of Santa María de la Mesa, or simply relax and take in the views. Zahara is also a gateway to adventure—activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking are only a little of what the village has to offer.


date: 2025-01-15
filename: MuseumCourt_EN-US0003531841.jpg
title: Where the past is always present
copyright: The Great Court of the British Museum, London, England (© Cavan Images/Offset/Shutterstock)
story:
January 15, 1759, marked the opening of a place that would become the pride of London, a hub of global history, and a keeper of countless stories: the British Museum. For the first time, a national museum flung its doors wide open, offering free access to knowledge and culture for all. The story begins with Sir Hans Sloane, an Anglo-Irish physician and avid collector. His collection of more than 71,000 items, ranging from books and manuscripts to botanical samples and antiquities, formed the museum's foundation. Fast-forward nearly 266 years, and the museum houses more than 8 million objects, the largest collection of artifacts in the world, although only about 1% of the collection is currently on display. Its treasures span continents and millennia, from the Rosetta Stone—key to deciphering ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs—to the Parthenon Marbles, the Benin Bronzes, and samurai armor.


date: 2025-01-16
filename: PinnaclesPeaks_EN-US0267834225.jpg
title: Born from fire, built to last
copyright:
High Peaks Trail in Pinnacles National Park, San Benito County, California (© yhelfman/Getty Images)

story:
Jagged pinnacles and spires, monoliths, and unusual caves—welcome to Pinnacles National Park in central California. President Theodore Roosevelt designated the area as a national monument in 1908, and Pinnacles would earn its status as a national park in 2013. As we celebrate the park's anniversary today, let's take a moment to appreciate this landscape. Pinnacles owes its formations to an ancient volcanic eruption that occurred 23 million years ago. The fiery beginnings made towering spires, cliffs, and talus caves, which are created by falling boulders wedged into narrow canyons. Over millennia, tectonic forces shifted the landmass northward, leaving the park far from its volcanic birthplace. Talk about a journey!


date: 2025-01-17
filename: PelicanPortrait_EN-US0510978735.jpg
title: Pouch perfect
copyright: Brown pelican, San Diego, California (© Arthur Morris/BIRDS AS ART/Getty Images)
story:
Today's image features the brown pelican, a bird that doesn't just fly but soars, spots, and dives with unmatched precision. Although it's the smallest of the eight pelican species worldwide, it's still a large bird, measuring about 4 feet in length and having a wingspan of 6.5 feet. It's a marine-dwelling species and can be spotted along the Atlantic coast of the Americas, from New Jersey to the mouth of the Amazon River. On the Pacific coast, it can be spotted from British Columbia all the way to Peru, including a stop at the Galápagos Islands.


date: 2025-01-18
filename: WhiteSandsNP_EN-US0745183236.jpg
title: 1,001 New Mexican dunes
copyright: Sunset at White Sands National Park, New Mexico (© Image Professionals GmbH/Alamy)
story:
Today's image features the dazzling beauty of White Sands National Park, New Mexico—a surreal expanse of glistening white gypsum dunes, the largest of its kind on Earth. Spanning more than 145,000 acres, these ever-shifting dunes rise up to 60 feet tall, creating a landscape not seen in many places. This park isn't only a natural wonder but a historical treasure, with fossilized human footprints dating back as far as 23,000 years, some of the oldest in North America.


date: 2025-01-19
filename: NeptunesGrotto_EN-US1020342235.jpg
title: A grotto fit for a god
copyright: Neptune's Grotto, Sardinia, Italy (© Carlo Murenu/Getty Images)
story:
Down 654 steps, perched perilously over the sea in Sardinia, Italy, you'll find a surprise waiting for you. Neptune's Grotto is a stunning stalactite cave that sits just over 3 feet above sea level. First discovered by local fishermen in the 18th century, the grotto was named after the Roman god of the sea. The entire cave complex stretches on for around 2.5 miles, although visitors can only access about 1,000 feet of the total. Inside, there's a labyrinth of lit pathways winding past stalactite and stalagmite formations, leading to a 390-foot-long saltwater lake.


date: 2025-01-20
filename: KingMemorial_EN-US1319830882.jpg
title: Honoring the dream
copyright: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC (© Win McNamee/Getty Images)
story:
Today we honor the life and legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Prominent in the 1950s and 1960s, King was a Baptist minister who promoted nonviolent protest to effectuate social change. In 1963, he helped organize the March on Washington, DC, which 250,000 people attended to protest discrimination and support pending civil rights legislation. During this event, King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, imagining America free of racism and segregation. His speech is regarded as one of America's greatest, and his leadership was instrumental in ending racial segregation of African Americans throughout many parts of the United States. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, but his life was cut short by an assassin in 1968.


date: 2025-01-21
filename: DutchSquirrel_EN-US1600993769.jpg
title: Feeling squirrely?
copyright: Eurasian red squirrel (© Edwin Giesbers/Minden Pictures)
story:
What's that long, bushy tail scurrying across the branches? Chances are, it's a squirrel. These little rodents are found across most of the globe, and today is their special day: Squirrel Appreciation Day. This unofficial holiday was started by a North Carolina wildlife rehabilitator to encourage people to leave out seeds and nuts for these critters. From the tiny least pygmy squirrel—just 5.5 inches long—to the Bhutan giant flying squirrel at more than 4 feet, these mammals come in all shapes and sizes.


date: 2025-01-22
filename: PetraMonastery_EN-US1834130511.jpg
title: Finding beauty in the Lost City
copyright: Ad-Deir, Petra, Jordan (© Punnawit Suwuttananun/Getty Images)
story:
Carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra and its crown jewel, Ad-Deir, or 'The Monastery,' feel like stepping into a real-life Indiana Jones adventure. Tucked in the heart of Jordan's arid desert landscapes, this ancient city once thrived as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in the 2nd century BCE. It was also a hub of the spice trade, connecting distant regions like China, Egypt, Greece, and India. The city was abandoned for around 500 years before being rediscovered in 1812, earning it the 'Lost City' moniker.


date: 2025-01-23
filename: DeerValley_EN-US2128104711.jpg
title: Movies, mountains, and magic
copyright: Deer Valley at dusk, Park City, Utah (© Adventure_Photo/Getty Images)
story:
Today, the Sundance Film Festival kicks off, celebrating the magic of movies against the backdrop of Utah's mountains. As a launchpad for groundbreaking films and emerging talent, Sundance has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1978. Now one of the film industry's most influential events, it has introduced the world to talents like Quentin Tarantino and Steven Soderbergh, whose early works premiered here before shaping their iconic careers. With competitive sections for dramatic and documentary movies, from features to shorts, the festival offers an inspiring array of storytelling.


date: 2025-01-24
filename: IcelandGeyser_EN-US7648999118.jpg
title: Bubbling with power
copyright: Strokkur geyser in Iceland (© John and Tina Reid/Getty Images)
story:
What could be better than warming up winter with a feast that's a little wild and a lot of fun? Thorrablot, Iceland's midwinter festival, invites you to dive headfirst into tradition. This celebration of survival, culture, and community, which dates to the Viking Age, was once a way for Icelanders to honor Thor, the Norse god of thunder. Today, people celebrate by gathering to feast on an array of local delicacies, including fermented shark, smoked lamb, rye bread, and shots of Brennivín—often called 'black death' schnapps.


date: 2025-01-25
filename: PortoSunset_EN-US7987153816.jpg
title: Golden hour in Porto
copyright: Porto, Portugal (© Starcevic/Getty Images)
story:
Today's image takes us to a city that is bold, unpolished in the best way, and brimming with personality. While it's famous for its port wine (cheers to that!), there's so much more to discover in the Portuguese city of Porto. As you walk through its streets, you'll notice façades adorned with azulejos—painted tin-glazed ceramic tilework found in Portugal and Spain—historic churches like São Francisco, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge spanning the Douro River, which runs through the city.


date: 2025-01-26
filename: FrostedBeech_EN-US8264026523.jpg
title: Aging gracefully
copyright: European beech forest in Belgium (© Philippe Moes/Minden Pictures)
story:
Beech trees are pretty amazing. There are several species worldwide, but the European beech steals the spotlight in much of Europe. With its smooth gray bark, short trunk, and sweeping branches, this tree is a standout in Belgium's forests, as shown in today's image. It grows in temperate regions and prefers well-drained, fertile soils, taking up to 30 years to mature. Not only do these 160-foot-tall trees dominate the landscape, but their wood is also used to make some of the sturdiest furniture, flooring, and even kitchen tools.


date: 2025-01-27
filename: CanyonSnow_EN-US8514636141.jpg
title: Peaked your curiosity
copyright: Zoroaster Temple, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (© Nick Lake/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
Carved by the Colorado River, nearly 2 billion years of Earth's history are exposed in the layers of the Grand Canyon. While geologists continue to debate parts of the formation story of the canyon, recent studies suggest the river carved its path through the region about 5 to 6 million years ago. Since then, the river has been deepening and widening the canyon while sculpting its dramatic geographic features.


date: 2025-01-28
filename: FlyingOwl_EN-US8779625388.jpg
title: Snow-way you'll miss it
copyright: Short-eared owl hunting in heavy snow (© Dilshan Muthalib/Getty Images)
story:
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's one of the most widely distributed bird species. This raptor belongs to the genus Asio, whose members are characterized by feather tufts ('ears') on their head. The short-eared owl only reveals its tufts when feeling defensive.


date: 2025-01-29
filename: LunarDragon_EN-US9011723385.jpg
title: Happy Chinese New Year!
copyright: Dragon dance, Wuhan, China (© Miao Jian/Wuhan Morning Post/Visual China Group via Getty Images)
story:
The streets come alive today with a symphony of firecrackers, red lanterns, and cheerful chatter—it's Chinese New Year. Steeped in thousands of years of tradition, this holiday marks the start of the lunisolar Chinese calendar. One of the most captivating images associated with this festival is the dragon dance, pictured here. Skilled dancers manipulate a long, flexible dragon puppet, bringing it to life with sinuous, undulating movements. The dragon, a symbol of power, dignity, and good fortune, is believed to bring luck to the community, with longer dragons bringing even more prosperity.


date: 2025-01-30
filename: OrdesaSpain_EN-US9252424531.jpg
title: Once more unto the breach
copyright:
La Brecha de Rolando, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain (© Inaki Relanzon/Nature Picture Library/Alamy)

story:
High up in the Pyrenees, there is a gap in the mountains. More than 300 feet tall and 131 feet across, La Brecha de Rolando (Roland's Breach), featured here today, is a sight to behold. But who was Roland? Count Roland was a Frankish military leader during Charlemagne's reign in the 8th century. Legend has it that, after being defeated in battle, Roland cut a gap in the mountains—either to destroy his sword or to catch one last glimpse of France.


date: 2025-01-31
filename: PlainsZebra_EN-US9488790690.jpg
title: Anything but plain
copyright: Plains zebras at sunrise, Mokala National Park, South Africa (© EcoPrint/Shutterstock)
story:
Celebrate the beauty of zebras on International Zebra Day! These striking animals, known for their unique black and white patterns, are mostly found in the African savanna, stretching from Kenya to South Africa. Of the three zebra species, Grévy's zebra, plains zebra, and mountain zebra, the Grévy's zebra is the most endangered, with more than half its population lost in only three decades. While plains zebras are thriving, mountain zebras face significant threats, such as poaching and habitat encroachment. Zebras play an essential role in the ecosystems they live in, coexisting with predators like lions and hyenas while shaping the grasslands they call home.


date: 2025-02-01
filename: AfricanMuseumDC_EN-US9749048351.jpg
title: Roots of freedom
copyright: National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC (© BrianPIrwin/Shutterstock)
story:
Today, the United States begins an annual, monthlong celebration of African Americans and their contributions to the country's history and culture. The forerunner of Black History Month was created in 1926 by historian Carter Woodson and minister Jesse Moorland to study and promote the legacy of Black Americans. The weeklong celebration was observed in the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and African American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Its popularity grew over the next 50 years in large part because of the civil rights movement, and President Gerald Ford expanded it to a full month in 1976. Other countries honor their own Black histories, including Canada, which also celebrates Black History Month throughout February.


date: 2025-02-02
filename: AustriaMarmot_EN-US0012248153.jpg
title: Weather or not
copyright: Young alpine marmot (© Jonas Fichtner-Pflaum/Getty Images)
story:
It's Groundhog Day … again. Today, Americans and Canadians rely on the prognostication skills of Punxsutawney Phil to determine if winter will hang on. Phil is a famous groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, and legend has it that if he emerges from his burrow February 2 and sees his own shadow, he'll go back to sleep for another six weeks of winter. If he doesn't, it will be an early spring. German immigrants brought the custom to America, where it was first celebrated in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, in 1887. Historically, Europeans celebrated February 2 as the first day of spring, and Germans originally watched badgers and other small animals for signs of seasonal change important to farmers. The Germans who settled in Pennsylvania in the 18th and 19th centuries chose the area's native groundhog for this task.


date: 2025-02-03
filename: RibbleheadViaduct_EN-US0244245382.jpg
title: Bridging history, one arch at a time
copyright:
Ribblehead Viaduct and Ingleborough mountain, North Yorkshire, England (© AWL Images/DanitaDelimont.com)

story:
Part engineering genius, part daredevil stunt—that's the Ribblehead Viaduct in North Yorkshire, England. This Victorian structure, also known as Batty Moss Viaduct, has been carrying trains and turning heads since the 1870s. Built by the Midland Railway, it's the longest and third tallest on the Settle–Carlisle railway line. Stretching 440 yards across the Ribble Valley, its 24 stone arches reach a height of 104 feet.


date: 2025-02-04
filename: GoldenBridge_EN-US3362533203.jpg
title: A walk among the clouds
copyright: Golden Bridge, Bà Nà Hills, Da Nang, Vietnam (© Hien Phung Thu/Shutterstock)
story:
Two colossal stone hands cradle a shimmering, golden walkway, as though the mountains themselves are offering it to the sky. This is Cầu Vàng, or the Golden Bridge, a pedestrian bridge in the misty mountains near Da Nang in central Vietnam. Opened in 2018, the bridge quickly became a global sensation, captivating travelers with its unique design and awe-inspiring setting.


date: 2025-02-05
filename: ScottishSheep_EN-US3449526052.jpg
title: Baa, baa, black sheep? No.
copyright: Scottish Blackface sheep, Aberdeenshire, Scotland (© Mike Powles/Getty Images)
story:
Being the 'black sheep' isn't always a bad thing—just ask the Scottish Blackface, seen here in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. With its striking dark features and a knack for thriving in places where others wouldn't, this British breed has turned the idiom on its head. Far from an outcast, it's the backbone of Scotland's rural life and a true champion of the hills and moors. Interestingly, the Blackface sheep didn't originate in Scotland but south of the Anglo-Scottish border.


date: 2025-02-06
filename: WhararikiBeach_EN-US3505877495.jpg
title: Reflections of a nation's legacy
copyright:
Archway Islands, Wharariki Beach, South Island, New Zealand (© Francesco Vaninetti/AWL/plainpicture)

story:
What do you get when you bring together more than 500 Māori chiefs, representatives of the British Crown, and a treaty signed in 1840? A day that New Zealanders still commemorate: Waitangi Day. On this date, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, establishing the principles for how the two cultures would coexist. Ceremonies are held at Waitangi Treaty Grounds—where the document was signed—featuring traditional Māori performances, speeches, and the ever-dramatic waka (canoe) races. From festivals and concerts in cities like Auckland and Wellington to low-key community gatherings, the spirit of the day is about connection and culture.


date: 2025-02-07
filename: BlueNorway_EN-US6457602567.jpg
title: Stuck in a blue moment
copyright: Blue hour in Trondheim, Norway (© Jeanny Mueller/Getty Images)
story:
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.


date: 2025-02-08
filename: SnowySvaneti_EN-US6546788330.jpg
title: Frozen in time
copyright: Medieval towers in Mestia, Upper Svaneti, Georgia (© photoaliona/Getty Images)
story:
Winter turns Mestia's medieval towers into icy fortresses. Perched 4,921 feet up in the Caucasus Mountains, Mestia is a charming highland town in northwest Georgia. The town is home to the Svans, a cultural and linguistic subgroup of Georgians. Despite its modest size, Mestia has been an essential hub of Georgian culture for centuries, dotted with the Svan defensive towers, seen in today's image. Most of these towers were constructed between the 9th and 12th centuries, a period often referred to as Georgia's Golden Age. However, their roots are believed to stretch even further back, possibly into prehistoric times. Built for both protection and shelter, these towers were not just fortresses but also integral parts of family homes, reflecting the region's history of resilience and self-sufficiency. Therefore, it isn't just a town; it's a living museum where history rises from these towers and echoes through the mountains.


date: 2025-02-09
filename: AlstromPoint_EN-US6746094430.jpg
title: A point worth pondering
copyright: Alstrom Point, Lake Powell, Utah (© T.M. Schultze/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
If you're chasing sunsets and jaw-dropping views, come to Alstrom Point. Located in southern Utah's Kane County, this spot in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stands at an impressive height of 4,685 feet. 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.


date: 2025-02-10
filename: UmbrellaDay_EN-US6816351187.jpg
title: Under my umbrella
copyright:
Art installation of umbrellas at Borough Market in London, England (© Malcolm P Chapman/Getty Images)

story:
It's National Umbrella Day today, a quirky celebration that honors 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'?


date: 2025-02-11
filename: YungangGrottoes_EN-US6896904893.jpg
title: The watchful eyes of history
copyright: Yungang Grottoes, Datong, Shanxi province, China (© Eric Yang/Getty Images)
story:
What do 51,000 ancient statues have in common? They all call the Yungang Grottoes in China home! This collection of early Buddhist art is near Datong in Shanxi province, northeastern China. Carved into sandstone cliffs over 1,500 years ago during the Northern Wei dynasty, the grottoes comprise 254 caves. The highlight is the massive Buddha in Cave 5, which is a jaw-dropping 56 feet tall. But don't stop there—each cave offers something unique. Some are like ancient storyboards, depicting tales from Buddhist scriptures, while others showcase detailed carvings of monks, deities, musicians, and even scenes of daily life under Wei rule. These caves blend influences from Indian, Central Asian, and local Chinese Buddhist art. Whether you're a history lover or simply appreciate unique art, the Yungang Grottoes offer an unforgettable experience.


date: 2025-02-12
filename: GalapagosIguana_EN-US6976814194.jpg
title: Darwin's blueprint
copyright: Marine iguanas, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador (© helovi/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we celebrate Darwin Day—a shout-out to Charles Darwin and his game-changing ideas about life on Earth. As an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist, his theory of natural selection revolutionized our understanding of species, evolution, and our role in the natural world. His work, 'On the Origin of Species,' published in 1859, laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology. This day marks the birthday of Darwin and honors his genius while promoting curiosity, science, and critical thinking.


date: 2025-02-13
filename: LakeTyrrell_EN-US7326346900.jpg
title: Salt of the earth
copyright: Lake Tyrrell, Victoria, Australia (© Monica Bertolazzi/Getty Images)
story:
At Lake Tyrrell, in southern Australia, the sky meets the Earth in a dazzling display. The state of Victoria's largest salt lake was formed around 120,000 years ago. Over time, climate changes caused water levels to drop; these days, the lake is normally dry, except in winter when it's covered in about 2 inches of water. The name 'Tyrrell' comes from the local Wergaia word for 'sky,' a nod to the Boorong Aboriginal People's interest in astronomy. Spanning more than 70 square miles, Lake Tyrrell is a haven for wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and various reptiles.


date: 2025-02-14
filename: PenguinLove_EN-US7515315710.jpg
title: Look at these lovebirds
copyright:
Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands (© Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/Getty Images)

story:
Love is in the air today: it's Valentine's Day! Across the globe, millions of flowers will be sent, and romantic restaurants will be fully booked. This holiday has its origins in the story of Saint Valentine, a 3rd-century Roman priest who, according to legend, secretly married couples to spare the husbands from conscription into the Roman army.


date: 2025-02-15
filename: Misotsuchi2025_EN-US8130053956.jpg
title: These are so nice-icle
copyright: Icicles of Misotsuchi, Chichibu, Japan (© watayu0821/Shutterstock)
story:
Behold the magic of the Misotsuchi no Tsurara (Misotsuchi Icicles) in Chichibu, Japan. This breathtaking natural ice wall, nearly 100 feet wide and 35 feet tall, is formed by spring water freezing as it trickles down a rock face. The attraction is only open from mid-January through mid-February. Colored lights after dark create a scene that feels straight out of a winter fairy tale.


date: 2025-02-16
filename: HumpbackMother_EN-US8033380725.jpg
title: Protecting the giants of the sea
copyright: Humpback whale mother and calf, Tonga (© Chase Dekker/Minden Pictures)
story:
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 honor 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.


date: 2025-02-17
filename: LincolnSunrise_EN-US7725604655.jpg
title: Honoring our presidents
copyright: The Washington Monument seen from the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC (© lucky-photographer/Alamy)
story:
Presidents' Day, celebrated on the third Monday in February, is a time for Americans to reflect on the legacies of those who have served in the country's highest office. The day is officially Washington's Birthday at the federal level, but it has evolved into a celebration that recognizes the achievements of all US presidents. Parades and patriotic displays are held across the country, and many people take the opportunity to learn about presidential history.


date: 2025-02-18
filename: BlueBelize_EN-US7787222240.jpg
title: Endless blue
copyright: Great Blue Hole, Belize (© JamiesOnAMission/Shutterstock)
story:
The Great Blue Hole, found near the center of Lighthouse Reef off the coast of Belize, is one of nature's most incredible creations. The massive marine sinkhole, 1,043 feet across and 407 feet deep, was formed during the last ice age when a limestone cave system collapsed and rising sea levels flooded the area, leaving behind a striking natural wonder.


date: 2025-02-19
filename: IceHoleOtter_EN-US7859051687.jpg
title: The 'otter' side of life
copyright: European river otter, Lelystad, Netherlands (© Ernst Dirksen/Minden Pictures)
story:
The European river otter is more than just an adorable face in the wild. Found across Europe, Asia, and parts of northern Africa, these otters thrive in clean rivers, lakes, and wetlands, serving as an important indicator of environmental health. They are built for agility, with streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and dense fur that keeps them warm even in icy waters. A single square inch of their fur can hold more than 400,000 hairs, making it one of nature's most effective insulators. River otters were once endangered due to pollution and habitat loss. Thanks to conservation efforts, their populations are rebounding in many regions across Europe.


date: 2025-02-20
filename: AdamsYosemite_EN-US7924059397.jpg
title: Celebrating Ansel Adams
copyright: Alpenglow on Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California (© Matthew Kuhns/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Born on this day in 1902, Ansel Adams remains one of the most celebrated photographers in history, renowned for his striking black-and-white images of the American wilderness. His work immortalized the grandeur of national parks like California's Yosemite, pictured here, showcasing the raw beauty of nature with depth and clarity. A pioneer of 'pure photography,' Adams believed in capturing a scene's natural essence without manipulation, a principle he championed through his development of the Zone System—a technique to control exposure and contrast.


date: 2025-02-21
filename: ChampakaSarasi_EN-US0671131929.jpg
title: A tale of still waters
copyright: Champaka Sarasi pond near Shivamogga, Karnataka, India (© Amith Nag Photography/Getty Images)
story:
From waterfalls to temples, Shivamogga, in the South Indian state of Karnataka, offers experiences waiting to be discovered. Steeped in timeless lore, the city is mentioned in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, epics composed as poems and set in the ancient Hindu kingdoms of India. The region's name itself holds a spiritual significance, derived from the Sanskrit words 'Shiva-Mukha,' meaning the 'face of Shiva,' the Hindu god. It is home to several temples, including the Sharavati Temple, dedicated to Shiva, and a temple in the Kodachadri hills that offers vistas of the Western Ghats mountain range.


date: 2025-02-22
filename: StLouisArch_EN-US1920417205.jpg
title: Bending towards brilliance
copyright: The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri (© f11photo/Getty Images)
story:
Today we are celebrating the anniversary of Gateway National Park, which was established on February 22, 2018, in St. Louis, Missouri. The park, which lies along a picturesque stretch of the Mississippi River, commemorates Thomas Jefferson’s idea of a continental nation. At its heart stands the Gateway Arch, a breathtaking 630-foot-tall structure that has become the ultimate symbol of St. Louis. Constructed of stainless steel, it holds the distinction of being the world's tallest arch and Missouri's tallest accessible structure. Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen dreamed up the design back in 1947, and by October 28, 1965, his vision had been brought to life. The arch's futuristic design has long been viewed as a symbol of the automobile era, representing the modern, urban landscape, and the promise of a technologically advanced future.


date: 2025-02-23
filename: MtFujiSunrise_EN-US2218385739.jpg
title: Wind of Fuji, my souvenir from Edo
copyright: Mount Fuji at sunrise, Lake Kawaguchi, Japan (© Twenty47studio/Getty Images)
story:
Around 60 miles southwest of Tokyo stands one of Japan's cultural icons: Mount Fuji. The country's tallest mountain rises 12,000 feet above the surrounding landscape, with its near-symmetrical cone covered in snow for nearly five months each year. For centuries, Fujisan—as it is known in Japanese—has been worshiped as a sacred mountain. In the Shinto faith, Fuji is deified as Asama no Okami, and shrines dedicated to it are built within sight of the mountain.


date: 2025-02-24
filename: GiantCuttlefish_EN-US2276053377.jpg
title: Inked and undercover
copyright:
Group of giant cuttlefish in Spencer Gulf, off Whyalla, South Australia (© Gary Bell/Minden Pictures)

story:
Prepare to be amazed by the giant cuttlefish, known for its mesmerizing 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.


date: 2025-02-25
filename: BryceHoodoos_EN-US2334649046.jpg
title: Hoodoo you do?
copyright: Sandstone hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (© Stephen Matera/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
A breathtaking maze of sandstone formations and awe-inspiring views awaits you at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. People have lived in this area for at least 10,000 years, including the Anasazi, Pueblo, and Paiute Peoples. The hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock formed by erosion—in the park inspired Paiute mythology: they believed them to be the Legend People turned to stone by the trickster Coyote.


date: 2025-02-26
filename: ArgyllStalker_EN-US2452683665.jpg
title: Scottish strategy at its finest
copyright: Castle Stalker on Loch Laich, Argyll, Scotland (© WLDavies/Getty Images)
story:
Perched dramatically on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, Argyll, Castle Stalker is one of Scotland's most picturesque and well-preserved medieval tower houses. Built around the 1440s by the Stewarts of Appin, its history includes royal visits and even a drunken wager that briefly transferred ownership to Clan Campbell. After falling into disrepair by the 19th century, it was lovingly restored in the mid-20th century and is still privately owned today. Visitors can explore this historic site on selected guided tours during the summer.


date: 2025-02-27
filename: PolarCub_EN-US2740470421.jpg
title: Polar care
copyright: Polar bear cub, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (© Eric Baccega/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
Today we're heading north for International Polar Bear Day. This event is the perfect time to learn more about the world's largest bear species and the threats they face. 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.


date: 2025-02-28
filename: BhutanMonastery_EN-US2804780711.jpg
title: Have a rest at the Tiger's Nest
copyright: Paro Taktsang, a Buddhist monastery in Bhutan (© Baron Reznik/Getty Images)
story:
Welcome to the year 2152. That is, in the Tibetan calendar at least. Today marks the start of Losar, the new year festival celebrated in Tibetan Buddhism, which is observed in Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, and parts of India. Losar celebrations run for 15 days, beginning the night before with a meal of guthuk—a traditional dumpling soup. The new year is rung in with an incense burning ceremony and visits to holy places to pray for good fortune in the year ahead.


date: 2025-03-01
filename: SuffragetteCity_EN-US2883743791.jpg
title: Women's History Month
copyright: Dr. Anna Howard Shaw leading a suffrage parade in 1910s New York City (© Bettmann/Getty Images)
story:
Every March, as we celebrate Women's History Month, we honor the trailblazing women who've shaped our world. Central to this legacy is the suffrage movement—a courageous fight for women's right to vote.


date: 2025-03-02
filename: EucalyptusForest_EN-US3015819767.jpg
title: A eucalyp-tastic view
copyright:
Eucalyptus trees, Megalong Valley, Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia (© Andrew Peacock/TANDEM Stills + Motion)

story:
Today, we are in New South Wales, Australia, amid the Blue Mountains National Park. Known for its dramatic cliffs, dense rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Among the most iconic features of the Blue Mountains region are the eucalyptus trees, pictured here. Home to 92 species of eucalyptus, this area offers visitors a chance to marvel at these resilient trees, which are central to Australian wildlife. Their aromatic leaves provide food for koalas, while their bark and canopy create habitats for countless birds and insects.


date: 2025-03-04
filename: MardiGrasJackson_EN-US3277683692.jpg
title: Not your ordinary Tuesday
copyright: Jackson Square, New Orleans, Louisiana (© SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images)
story:
Mardi Gras, or 'Fat Tuesday,' is a vibrant tradition that marks the last day of indulgence before the Christian season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. Rooted in ancient Roman celebrations like Saturnalia, Mardi Gras evolved as Christianity spread, blending local customs—most notably Carnival festivities—with religious observances. The name itself originates from French, with the word gras meaning 'fat,' referring to rich, fatty foods like meat, eggs, and cheese that are traditionally enjoyed before the fasting season begins.


date: 2025-03-05
filename: SuratThani_EN-US3326265231.jpg
title: A jungle adventure
copyright: Aerial view of Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani, Thailand (© Peetatham Kongkapech/Getty Images)
story:
Today we're in a wildlife-packed wonderland with rainforests older than the Amazon—Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province, southern Thailand. Established in 1980, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including the Malayan tapir, white-handed gibbon, gaur, and hornbill, making it an ideal destination for anyone ready to swap city noise for jungle sounds. There are trails to tackle, kayaks to paddle, and, if you're fortunate, you might even catch a glimpse of the massive (and stinky) Rafflesia flower when it's in bloom.


date: 2025-03-06
filename: NevadaBigHorns_EN-US3434258986.jpg
title: Rocky relationship
copyright: Desert bighorn sheep in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada (© Rachid Dahnoun/Cavan Images)
story:
Nature's desert navigators—desert bighorn sheep—are a marvel to watch, effortlessly scaling cliffs and navigating rocky terrains with grace. Native to North America, these sheep are known for their distinctive curled horns, which can weigh up to 30 pounds. Rams use their massive horns in intense head-butting contests. During these battles, they hurl themselves at each other in charges of up to 20 miles per hour. Ewes, on the other hand, tend to keep things more low-key, forming smaller groups with their lambs. Adapted to the desert environment, the desert bighorn sheep sub-species can go long periods without water, relying on moisture from plants to survive.


date: 2025-03-07
filename: PlumBlossom_EN-US7055526666.jpg
title: China in bloom
copyright: Plum blossoms in China (© zhikun sun/Getty Images)
story:
Plum blossoms, inspiration for countless artists and writers, bloom as symbols of endurance and elegance. The flowers of the Prunus mume tree bloom in late winter to early spring. Native to China, the species has been introduced to Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Found in China's iconic spots like Nanjing's Plum Blossom Mountain, Wuhan's East Lake, and Hangzhou's West Lake, these fleeting blooms attract visitors eager to witness their ephemeral magic. In Chinese culture, plum blossoms represent purity and the arrival of spring, whereas in Japan, they symbolize new beginnings. With over 300 varieties, this tree can thrive in gardens of all sizes, offering a variety of shapes and colors. Beyond their visual appeal, plum blossoms are also used in traditional cuisine, such as floral teas and preserved plums.


date: 2025-03-08
filename: FearlessWomen_EN-US7338738180.jpg
title: Making her-story!
copyright:
Fearless Girl statue facing the New York Stock Exchange, New York City (© JOHANNES EISELE/AFP via Getty Images)

story:
Happy International Women's Day, everyone! It's a global celebration of resilience, rights, and remarkable women. First observed in the early 1900s, the day traces its roots to labor movements led by women fighting for better pay, improved working conditions, and voting rights. From its beginnings in 1911, when over a million people attended rallies in Europe, the day has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, it's marked by events, protests, and campaigns addressing issues like gender pay gaps, domestic violence, and access to education. From trailblazers like Marie Curie, who illuminated science, to Malala Yousafzai, who champions education, women have proven time and again that they don't just participate; they innovate.


date: 2025-03-09
filename: ItalyClock_EN-US7397391355.jpg
title: The March of time
copyright: St. Mark's Clock Tower, Venice, Italy (© scaliger/Getty Images)
story:
It's the time of year again when clocks spring forward, stealing an hour of sleep but giving us longer evenings to enjoy. Daylight saving time (DST) starts today at 2 AM, except in Arizona and Hawaii, reminding us that time, quite literally, waits for no one. The idea is simple: maximizing daylight and reducing energy consumption by syncing our activities with the natural light cycle. This concept was popularized by Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century, though his suggestion to 'save candles' was more satirical than a serious proposal. Fast-forward to the early 20th century, when many countries adopted DST to conserve fuel during wartime. The US officially standardized it in 1966 with the Uniform Time Act. Today, DST runs from March to November in around 70 countries, giving eight months of extended evening light.


date: 2025-03-10
filename: NappingLion_EN-US8441298325.jpg
title: Snooze and conquer
copyright:
A lion sleeping in Ishasha Sector, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda (© Gunter Nuyts/Getty Images)

story:
Feeling a bit tired? You're not alone—losing an hour to daylight saving time can leave anyone groggy. That's why Napping Day exists. Introduced in 1999 by William Anthony, a Boston University professor, and his wife, Camille, this unofficial holiday encourages everyone to take quality naps. Observed on the Monday after clocks spring forward, it's a reminder that rest is essential for well-being. Research backs it up—short naps boost mood, enhance concentration, and sharpen memory. Napping is also linked to lower stress and better heart health. While power naps (20-30 minutes) are ideal for a quick recharge, even a few minutes of shut-eye can help.


date: 2025-03-11
filename: NusaPenida_EN-US8722184767.jpg
title: When the ocean breaks the rules
copyright: Broken Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia (© joakimbkk/Getty Images)
story:
Let's be real—the beaches in Bali are beautiful, but the ones in Nusa Penida? That's a whole new vibe. This off-the-beaten-path island, part of the Bali province, is where nature gets a little wild, and the sights are nothing short of epic. With its rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters, the island offers an escape from Bali's busier tourist hubs. The name 'Nusa Penida' translates to 'island of priests,' and historically, it served as a spiritual retreat, with temples and rituals that locals still honor today.


date: 2025-03-12
filename: ChateauLoire_EN-US8827570825.jpg
title: Standing strong
copyright: Château de Sully-sur-Loire, Center-Val de Loire, France (© StockPhotoAstur/Shutterstock)
story:
If you're a lover of history with a dash of drama, the Château de Sully-sur-Loire, in the center of northern France, has you covered. This fortress has seen it all—battles, power shifts, and royal connections. Originally built in the 14th century, the medieval castle was designed to guard the Loire River and control access to the region. Over time, it evolved into a residence for nobility, most notably serving as the home of Maximilien de Béthune, Duke of Sully, who was a trusted minister of King Henry IV. The castle played a significant role during the French Wars of Religion from 1562 to 1598 and has witnessed countless moments of intrigue and diplomacy. In 1940, during World War II, the castle wall was hit by shells, creating massive holes, but the framework remained intact.


date: 2025-03-13
filename: HoliColors_EN-US9033637774.jpg
title: Holi color splash
copyright: Holi celebration in Jaipur, India (© powerofforever/Getty Images)
story:
Strolling through the streets of India during Holi is like stepping into a kaleidoscope of colors—vivid splashes of blue, green, red, yellow, pink, and orange fill the air. This festival falls on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Phalguna—usually in late February or March. It is a significant tradition that symbolizes the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Outside India, Holi is celebrated by Hindus in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, as well as by Indian communities around the world, including the US.


date: 2025-03-14
filename: BasqueDolmen_EN-US9089569057.jpg
title: Pi in the sky
copyright: Dolmen of Sorginetxe, Basque Country, Álava, Spain (© David Herraez Calzada/plainpicture)
story:
Calculating the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter is as easy as pi. Today is Pi Day, an event that celebrates this mathematical constant. This date was chosen because 3, 1, and 4 are the first three significant figures of pi (π) when it is written out. Pi is an irrational number, which means that it can't be written as a fraction. When written out, its decimal representation goes on infinitely without repeating. The oldest attempts to calculate pi date back to ancient Babylon and Egypt, around 1900 BCE.


date: 2025-03-15
filename: ForumRomanum_EN-US9379132630.jpg
title: Friends, Romans, countrymen
copyright: The Temple of Saturn in the Roman Forum, Rome, Italy (© Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images)
story:
As Shakespeare wrote in his play 'Julius Caesar,' 'Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.' Today is the Ides of March, a day steeped in Roman history and tradition. The term 'Ides' referred to the midpoint of the month in the Roman calendar, often marking the full moon. It was a time of celebration, with festivals and public gatherings. However, in 44 BCE, the Ides of March became synonymous with political upheaval, betrayal, and an event that would trigger the fall of the Roman Republic. On that fateful day, Julius Caesar, Rome's powerful dictator, was assassinated by a group of senators. The conspirators, including his close ally Brutus, believed they were saving the Republic from Caesar's growing authority. Caesar was attacked near the Theater of Pompey, but the tension of that moment echoed through the Roman Forum—the beating heart of Rome's political and social life.


date: 2025-03-16
filename: PandaSnow_EN-US9432739016.jpg
title: Back to black ... and white
copyright: Baby giant panda in the snow, China (© Cheryl Schneider/Alamy)
story:
Let's celebrate one of nature's fluffiest treasures: the giant panda. Native to China, these iconic black-and-white bears are more than just adorable. They play a crucial role in their bamboo forest ecosystem by dispersing seeds and fostering new vegetation growth, which benefits countless plants and animals.


date: 2025-03-17
filename: BeckettBridge_EN-US9511078525.jpg
title: St. Patrick's enchantment
copyright: Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin, Ireland (© Colm Keating/Tandem Stills + Motion)
story:
St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17, honors Ireland's patron saint and national apostle, Saint Patrick—a fifth-century missionary. A national holiday in Ireland, the festivity is marked by a range of cultural events, parades, and traditional music and dance enjoyed across the globe. Interestingly, the first St. Patrick's Day parade wasn't held in Ireland but in the US. The earliest celebration was organized by Irish vicar Ricardo Artur in St. Augustine, Florida, in 1601.


date: 2025-03-18
filename: SedonaSpring_EN-US9611080272.jpg
title: A vortex state of mind
copyright: Red rock formations, Sedona, Arizona (© Jim Ekstrand/Alamy)
story:
Sedona, Arizona, is a place where nature, history, and spirituality converge amidst stunning red rock formations. These fiery sandstone creations, part of the Schnebly Hill Formation, were shaped over millions of years during the Permian Period as sediment accumulated in an ancient sea. Over time, erosion has further sculpted Sedona's landscapes, which now glow brilliantly at sunrise and sunset. Notable formations such as Wilson Mountain, Seven Sacred Pools, and Cathedral Rock offer iconic views.


date: 2025-03-19
filename: BlackHeron_EN-US9662351796.jpg
title: Umbrella maneuver
copyright: A black heron canopy feeding, Chobe National Park, Botswana (© Paul Souders/Minden Pictures)
story:
In the world of clever hunting, the black heron rules the roost. This bird thrives in shallow, open waters and at the edges of freshwater lakes and ponds. It's also commonly spotted in marshes, rice fields, seasonally flooded grasslands, and along riverbanks. At first glance, this feathered genius seems like any other wading bird, with its long legs, slender neck, and pointed beak that aid in hunting. But when it hunts, this jet-black African species showcases an extraordinary skill—it takes the shape of an umbrella, as seen in today's image.


date: 2025-03-20
filename: SpringDaffodils_EN-US9726346116.jpg
title: Spring awakening
copyright: Spring daffodils glowing in morning light (© LedyX/Shutterstock)
story:
With the sun rising higher, the days grow longer, marking the arrival of spring. The spring equinox occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere. Traditionally, spring is considered to begin on March 21. However, astronomers and calendar makers now agree that spring officially commences on March 20 across all time zones in North America. This event signals the true start of the season, bringing with it the beauty and symbolism of spring blooms.


date: 2025-03-21
filename: DanumValley_EN-US1030783251.jpg
title: Long live the trees
copyright: Mist over a lowland rainforest, Danum Valley, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia (© Nick Garbutt/Alamy)
story:
March 21 marks the International Day of Forests, a global observance aimed at celebrating the vital role forests play in supporting biodiversity and combating climate change. First established by the United Nations in 2013, this day encourages worldwide efforts, such as tree-planting campaigns, to raise awareness about the importance of forests and trees for future generations.


date: 2025-03-22
filename: CenoteLilies_EN-US1076301699.jpg
title: Wat-er wonderful world!
copyright: Water lilies at the surface of Cenote Nicte-Ha, Tulum, Mexico (© Franco Banfi/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
March 22 is World Water Day, a United Nations initiative highlighting the importance of fresh water and its conservation. This day raises awareness about the global water crisis and promotes actions to ensure clean water for all. Fresh water is vital—not just for drinking, but for ecosystems, agriculture, and cultural heritage.


date: 2025-03-23
filename: NebraskaStorm_EN-US1163295363.jpg
title: You can't silence thunder
copyright: Lightning and storm clouds at sunset near Bowman, Nebraska (© john finney photography/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we celebrate World Meteorological Day, commemorating the founding of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1950. For the annual event, the 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.


date: 2025-03-24
filename: ElephantGrass_EN-US1398774650.jpg
title: Feasting in the tall grass
copyright: Desert elephant with calf feeding on tall grass, Namibia (© Christophe Courteau/Minden Pictures)
story:
Desert elephants, found in Namibia and Mali, are African bush elephants that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the Namib and Sahara deserts. These extremely arid regions receive less than 2.75 inches of annual rainfall. Compared to other bush elephants, desert elephants have longer legs, broader feet, and slightly smaller bodies. These resilient herbivores migrate between waterholes, following ancient routes based on seasonal food and water availability. Male desert elephants often roam alone over vast areas, while female-led family groups stay near rivers, where food is more plentiful. Their incredible adaptability is showcased by their ability to travel long distances, sometimes 43 miles in a single night, to find their favorite myrrh bushes.


date: 2025-03-25
filename: HobbitHole_EN-US1602468401.jpg
title: In a hole, there was a story
copyright: Hobbit-hole in Hobbiton Movie Set, Waikato, New Zealand (© Kim Petersen/Alamy)
story:
Today is Tolkien Reading Day. It's a time to dust off well-worn copies of 'The Lord of the Rings' or 'The Hobbit,' and journey once more into the lands of elves, dwarves, and one particularly famous ring. But why this date? March 25 is the day the One Ring was destroyed, bringing down Sauron and ending his dark reign. The observation was launched in 2003 to encourage people to explore J.R.R. Tolkien's works. Schools, libraries, and fans worldwide take part, reading passages aloud, discussing favorite moments, and diving into the rich lore of Middle-earth. Some go all out with themed events, cosplay, and even second breakfasts—because what better way to honor Tolkien than by feasting like a hobbit?


date: 2025-03-26
filename: CrystalManatee_EN-US1724106178.jpg
title: Life below the surface
copyright:
Manatee in Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Florida (© Stephen Frink/Getty Images)

story:
Manatees don't rush through life—they float. These gentle giants of the sea have been gliding through warm waters for millions of years, minding their own business and munching on seagrass. But despite their laid-back nature, they face serious threats. Hence, the last Wednesday of March is dedicated to them—Manatee Appreciation Day.


date: 2025-03-27
filename: OdeonAthens_EN-US2159327450.jpg
title: A standing ovation for theaters
copyright: Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Acropolis of Athens, Greece (© f11photo/Getty Images)
story:
Lights on, curtains rise—it's World Theater 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 theater 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 theater'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, theater has continuously evolved while holding onto its core: human connection.


date: 2025-03-28
filename: NestingMonarch_EN-US2312410271.jpg
title: A cozy cradle
copyright: Female black-naped monarch nesting (© komkrit tonusin/Alamy)
story:
Watch closely; you might catch a glimpse of the black-naped monarch. This bird is part of the monarch flycatcher family, which also includes shrikebills, magpie-larks, and paradise flycatchers. Found across tropical southern Asia, from Iran and Sri Lanka to Indonesia and the Philippines, the black-naped monarch prefers dense forests and other lush, wooded spots. It perches upright on its short legs and spends most of its time catching insects in midair. These birds occupy the dense understory of the forest canopy.


date: 2025-03-29
filename: CarrizoBloom_EN-US2504669059.jpg
title: Burst of blooms
copyright: Superbloom in Carrizo Plain National Monument, California (© Robb Hirsch/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
It's not every day you see a desert burst into colors, but during a superbloom, arid land is covered with endless stretches of flowers. This rare phenomenon happens in California and Arizona when the rainy season awakens wildflower seeds that have been lying dormant in the soil. Superblooms in California typically occur once a decade, but prolonged droughts in the 21st century have made them increasingly less frequent. Drawing attention to California's diverse flora and rural federal lands, this event offers a temporary boost to local economies.


date: 2025-03-30
filename: SydneyHarbour_EN-US2885246621.jpg
title: Harboring nice views
copyright: Aerial view of Sydney Harbour, New South Wales, Australia (© jamenpercy/Getty Images)
story:
Today's photo features a spot in Sydney, Australia, where shimmery waters meet famous landmarks: Port Jackson, more commonly known as Sydney Harbour. In the center, we have a bird's-eye view of the Sydney Opera House, an architectural icon with sail-like shells that shine bright under the Australian sun. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this UNESCO World Heritage Site took 14 years to complete and hosts over 1,500 performances annually. Just across the harbor, on the left side of the picture, the Sydney Harbour Bridge—affectionately called 'the Coathanger' for its arching steel frame—connects the city's northern and southern shores. When it opened in 1932, it was the world's widest long-span bridge. Adventurous visitors can climb its 440-foot summit for breathtaking panoramic views.


date: 2025-03-31
filename: ItalyOstuni_EN-US2964422003.jpg
title: Apulia's White City
copyright: Ostuni at dusk, Apulia, Italy (© Feng Wei Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic Sea, there is a historic city that enchants visitors with its labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, winding alleyways, and a sun-drenched piazza. Welcome to Ostuni, in the Apulia region of Italy. Apulia is a southeastern area of the country, located in the heel of Italy's 'boot.' It has the longest coastline of any mainland region in the country and is home to numerous attractions, including beaches, cliffs, and charming cities like the one we see in today's image.


date: 2025-04-01
filename: TicanFrog_EN-US3006346741.jpg
title: Hoppin' into National Frog Month
copyright: Tree frog, Costa Rica (© Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock)
story:
April is National Frog Month, and let's be honest, frogs don't always get the attention they deserve. These little jumpers have been around since dinosaurs roamed the Earth, and they've evolved into some of the weirdest, coolest creatures out there. With over 4,000 known species worldwide, they come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny New Guinea Amau frog—smaller than a dime—to the large Goliath frog, which can weigh more than 7 pounds. Some, like the glass frog, are nearly transparent, while others are extremely poisonous. The golden poison frog, for example, carries enough toxin to take down 10 humans. And if you think all frogs are swamp-dwellers, meet the desert rain frog, a round little amphibian that survives in dry conditions by absorbing moisture through its skin.


date: 2025-04-02
filename: UtahBadlands_EN-US3082813561.jpg
title: Waves of time
copyright: Sandstone formations in the badlands near Caineville, Utah (© Chris Moore/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Wavy sandstone ridges stretch across the Caineville Badlands, Utah, 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.


date: 2025-04-03
filename: SaguaroRainbow_EN-US3149462337.jpg
title: The sky is the limit
copyright: Rainbow over Wasson Peak, Saguaro National Park, Arizona (© Frank Staub/Getty Images)
story:
Have you ever spotted a rainbow and felt a little lucky? National Find a Rainbow Day, celebrated today, is all about looking to the sky for that magical mix of sun and rain. Nature's color wheel has long been linked to myths and legends, from Norse gods to the Irish leprechaun's pot of gold. But beyond folklore, the science behind rainbows is just as compelling. The first real explanation came from Theodoric of Freiberg, a German physicist, in 1304. He discovered that rainbows form when sunlight enters a raindrop, bends, reflects inside, and then bends again as it exits. This process splits light into its colors, creating the spectrum we see. The classic 'ROYGBIV' (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet) doesn't tell the whole story—rainbows contain millions of colors blended together.


date: 2025-04-04
filename: CherryBlossomDC_EN-US9897772834.jpg
title: Cherry, cherry, bloom, bloom
copyright: The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC (© f11photo/Getty Images)
story:
Every spring, Washington, DC, transforms into a sea of pink and white as the cherry trees bloom, marking the return of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This beloved event commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo's Mayor Yukio Ozaki to the US, symbolizing the friendship between the two nations.


date: 2025-04-05
filename: GaztelugatxeSunset_EN-US9970203395.jpg
title: Pilgrimage to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
copyright: Gaztelugatxe at sunset, Basque Country, Spain (© Eloi_Omella/Getty Images)
story:
Gaztelugatxe is a stunning islet located on the coast of Biscay in the Basque Country, Spain. It's famous for its dramatic scenery and the small hermitage, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, dedicated to John the Baptist at its peak. The hermitage, which dates back to the 10th century, has been rebuilt several times due to damage from battles and fire. Today's building is perched atop the islet and is accessible by a narrow path that includes 241 steps. It's a popular pilgrimage site, and visitors often ring the church bell three times and make a wish. According to legend, John the Baptist himself set foot on the islet. The views from the top offer panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline and the Cantabrian Sea. Gaztelugatxe gained international fame as a filming location for the TV series 'Game of Thrones,' where it served as Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen.


date: 2025-04-06
filename: PeabodyBaltimore_EN-US0036943577.jpg
title: Lost in titles
copyright: George Peabody Library, Baltimore, Maryland (© Wim Wiskerke/Alamy)
story:
Libraries are magical places. They are home to books full of stories and knowledge, provide easy access to resources that might not be affordable for all, and offer spaces for book clubs, author talks, and other social gatherings. Without a doubt, our society benefits from libraries in several ways. To motivate people to read and take advantage of these institutions, the National Book Committee initiated an event series. The first National Library Week was celebrated in 1958 with the action slogan, 'Wake Up and Read!' This year, the annual National Library Week starts on April 6, which coincides with National Library Day. Some libraries will amaze us not only with their collection of books but also with their architecture. The George Peabody Library at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore has earned the prestigious nickname, 'the cathedral of books.' Take today's image as inspiration for the theme of the 2025 National Library Week: 'Drawn to the Library.'


date: 2025-04-07
filename: BeaverDay_EN-US0090956170.jpg
title: Hello, Mr. Beaver!
copyright: North American beaver, Moran, Wyoming (© Enrique Aguirre Aves/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we celebrate International Beaver Day! Established in 2009 by Beavers Wetlands & Wildlife, this day highlights the vital role beavers play in our ecosystems. Beavers are remarkable creatures known for their dam-building skills, which create wetlands, benefiting numerous species. As North America's largest rodents, they can grow up to 3 feet long, not including their distinctive flat tails. Their continuously growing teeth, with thick enamel giving them an orange hue, are essential tools for gnawing on trees—a behavior that maintains both their dental health and their environment. No wonder their strong choppers make them one of nature's best engineers. Who knew a furry little architect could have such a big impact on nature?


date: 2025-04-08
filename: ParoTsechu_EN-US0177055246.jpg
title: Patterns from the past
copyright: Women in traditional dress at the Paro Tshechu Festival in Bhutan (© Richard I'Anson/Getty Images)
story:
Get ready for a festival like no other—the Paro Tshechu of Bhutan—where drums echo, prayer flags flutter, and masked dancers take center stage. One of Bhutan's annual religious festivals, which are known as tshechus, it is a vibrant showcase of Vajrayana Buddhist heritage. The celebration begins on the 10th day of the second lunar month, which typically falls in March or April. This year, the festival kicks off today and concludes on April 12.


date: 2025-04-09
filename: BlueNaxos_EN-US0374867860.jpg
title: Before the stars take over
copyright: Blue hour in Naxos, Cyclades, Greece (© Sizun Eye/Getty Images)
story:
As daylight fades or just before it emerges, the island of Naxos in Greece takes on an azure glow, immersing itself in the magic of the blue hour. When the sun is positioned well below the horizon, during this brief window, the lingering sunlight casts a deep blue hue across the sky.


date: 2025-04-10
filename: LittleFoxes_EN-US8078019606.jpg
title: Wild at heart
copyright: Red fox cubs near their den (© WildMedia/Shutterstock)
story:
April 10 rolls around, and suddenly, childhood rivalries, inside jokes, and borrowed clothes come flooding back. Siblings Day is here—a day to appreciate the ones who stole your toys, tattled on you, and yet somehow remain your biggest supporters. Although Siblings Day is not a federally recognized holiday, it has gained recognition across several countries. The idea came from Claudia Evart, who established the day in memory of her late siblings. Since 1995, the Siblings Day Foundation has worked to celebrate this occasion and the unique connection shared by brothers and sisters.


date: 2025-04-11
filename: TulipsWindmill_EN-US8114977846.jpg
title: A blooming good time
copyright: Tulip fields in Netherlands (© 1111IESPDJ/Getty Images)
story:
From the famous tulip fields to the world's largest flower auction, the Netherlands and tulips go a long way back. Tulips didn't originate here. These beauties arrived in the country in the late 16th century, brought from the Ottoman Empire. By the 17th century, they became so valuable that a single bulb could cost more than a house. This period, known as 'tulip mania,' is considered one of the first recorded financial bubbles. When prices crashed in 1637, fortunes were lost, but the love for tulips remained.


date: 2025-04-12
filename: SpaceFlight_EN-US8143075629.jpg
title: 108 minutes that changed the world
copyright: View from the cupola of the International Space Station above the South Pacific Ocean (© NASA)
story:
Not so long ago, humanity took its first step beyond Earth. For thousands of years, we gazed at the stars, dreaming of what lay beyond. Then, on April 12, 1961, one man left the planet and changed history forever. That morning, Soviet pilot Yuri Gagarin climbed into a small, spherical spacecraft named Vostok 1. The countdown began. The engines ignited. As the rocket roared toward the sky, he called out, 'Poyekhali!'—'Let's go!' And just like that, Earth had its first space traveler.


date: 2025-04-13
filename: ThailandPagodas_EN-US8039751329.jpg
title: Let's celebrate Songkran!
copyright: Wat Tang Sai Temple in Ban Krut, Thailand (© Ratnakorn Piyasirisorost/Getty Images)
story:
New Year celebrations don't always come with fireworks—sometimes, they come with buckets and a nationwide water splash fest! Thailand's Songkran festival is a unique mix of spiritual traditions and all-out water fights. Held from April 13 to 15 this year, the holiday is deeply rooted in Buddhist customs and focuses on cleansing and starting afresh. During this time, people visit temples, offer food to monks, and pour scented water over Buddha statues and elders' hands as a sign of respect. Meanwhile, the streets turn into water battlegrounds, with locals and tourists alike getting soaked in the spirit of renewal. Traditional parades roll through the lanes, and in some places, the 'Lady Songkran' or 'Miss Songkran' contest steals the show, with contestants dressed in stunning Thai outfits.


date: 2025-04-14
filename: SpottedDolphins_EN-US0872892049.jpg
title: The chase begins!
copyright: Atlantic spotted dolphins near Santa Maria Island, Azores, Portugal (© Jordi Chias/Minden Pictures)
story:
Dolphins don't need a calendar to celebrate—but we do! National Dolphin Day, on April 14, reminds us to appreciate these smart and downright fascinating marine mammals. From leaping through waves to chatting in clicks and whistles, dolphins are all about social life. They often travel in pods and love to check out passing boats whenever they get the chance. But pollution and overfishing threaten their survival, and they need our help. National Dolphin Day is a chance to learn, take action, and—if you're lucky—see these creatures in their natural habitat.


date: 2025-04-15
filename: BeachArt_EN-US0911239616.jpg
title: See Art, Do Art, Be Art
copyright: Beach art by Zarpõ at plage de Sauveterre, Les Sables-d'Olonne, France (© Hemis/Alamy)
story:
What if we celebrated World Art Day with our feet in the sand? Created by the International Association of Art in honor of Leonardo da Vinci's birthday, this day promotes creativity in all its forms. This is exactly what artist Zarpõ did on the beach at Sauveterre, in Vendée, France. He sculpted a gigantic work, playing with natural curves and patterns to create an unforgettable spectacle.


date: 2025-04-16
filename: KachinaBridge_EN-US1000475196.jpg
title: A passage through time
copyright: Kachina Bridge, Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah (© Alan Majchrowicz/Getty Images)
story:
Within the remote canyons of southeastern Utah, Natural Bridges National Monument highlights the power of erosion and the passage of time. Shaped by the relentless forces of wind and water, this monument features three magnificent natural bridges—Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo. These bridges were named to honor the Ancestral Puebloans who once lived here. Sipapu is the largest bridge, with a massive opening that could almost fit the dome of the United States Capitol. Kachina, pictured here, is equidistant from Sipapu and Owachomo. It was named after the petroglyphs and pictographs found at its base. Owachomo is believed to be the oldest of the three. Its thin, arching structure suggests it may eventually collapse.


date: 2025-04-17
filename: EcuadorBird_EN-US1037921621.jpg
title: Double the drama
copyright: Andean cocks-of-the-rock, Ecuador (© Kit Day/Alamy)
story:
If fashion had a bird ambassador, the cock-of-the-rock would steal the spotlight. The males look like they're wearing a bright orange-red costume, complete with a huge crest that almost covers their beak. With its bold colors, this native South American bird isn't just about looks—it's got the moves too. The Andean and Guianan cock-of-the-rock are renowned for their theatrical courtship dances, making them true head-turners of the feathered kingdom. Females are far less flashy, with brownish feathers that help them stay hidden. During the mating season, males gather in leks—noisy display arenas—where they hop, squawk, and shake their heads in an effort to impress a female. She watches, picks the best dancer, mates, and then flies off to build a concave, cup-shaped mud nest on a rocky surface.


date: 2025-04-18
filename: GoremeTurkey_EN-US1897945450.jpg
title: Celebrating history
copyright:
Hot air balloons over Göreme Historical National Park in Cappadocia, Türkiye (© Anton Petrus/Getty Images)

story:
Imagine a world without the pyramids, the Great Wall, or ancient cave cities—hard to picture, right? That's why April 18 is the International Day for Monuments and Sites, an event recognized by UNESCO dedicated to protecting cultural treasures worldwide. This day is all about celebrating our history, raising awareness about endangered sites, and making sure future generations can enjoy them too.


date: 2025-04-19
filename: ZionValley_EN-US2520458606.jpg
title: National Park Week begins
copyright: Zion National Park, Utah (© Simon Dannhauer/Getty Images)
story:
Get your hiking boots on—it's National Park Week! This nine-day-long event encourages people to explore and appreciate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of our national parks. It's an excellent time to learn about these protected areas, participate in preservation efforts, and enjoy their scenic views. You can join in by visiting a national park, sharing information about these natural treasures, and appreciating the vital role they play in our country's heritage.


date: 2025-04-20
filename: BunnyLove_EN-US2535495337.jpg
title: The Easter Bunny is coming to town
copyright: Wild baby rabbits in spring (© Fiona McAllister Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Today is a special day for billions of Christians worldwide—a time of renewal, celebration, and traditions. Easter, also called Pascha or Resurrection Sunday, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament. It's also a time for festive traditions, from sunrise services to Easter egg hunts and, of course, the beloved Easter Bunny.


date: 2025-04-21
filename: JoshuaStars_EN-US2563220033.jpg
title: Under the spell of the Milky Way
copyright: Joshua trees under the Milky Way, California (© Chao Zhang/Getty Images)
story:
Imagine standing under a sky so dark that the Milky Way stretches across it like a luminous ribbon. This is the experience that International Dark Sky Week aims to bring back. Every April, during the week of the new moon (this year from April 21 to 27), we are invited to turn off our lights and gaze at the stars. The event was initiated by Jennifer Barlow, a high school student in 2003, to combat light pollution. One of the best places to experience the night sky's beauty is Joshua Tree National Park in southeastern California, an International Dark Sky Park. Here, the absence of artificial light allows visitors to see the stars as our ancestors once did. Did you know that light pollution prevents us from seeing most of the stars in the Milky Way? By reducing it, we can reconnect with the universe's beauty and wonder.


date: 2025-04-22
filename: YellowstoneSpring_EN-US2710865870.jpg
title: 'Our Power, Our Planet'
copyright: Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (© Ajith Kumar/Getty Images)
story:
On Earth Day, let's journey to one of nature's most stunning displays of geothermal power—Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. The largest hot spring in the US, it spans 370 feet across and reaches temperatures of 160°F. This geothermal marvel is fueled by the immense heat of the massive Yellowstone volcano beneath the surface. Its vivid rings of blue, green, yellow, and orange are created by heat-loving microorganisms—called thermophiles—that thrive in the mineral-rich waters.


date: 2025-04-23
filename: GlobeTheatre_EN-US3262022178.jpg
title: Much ado about Shakespeare
copyright: Shakespeare's Globe, London, England (© Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)
story:
'All the world's a stage ...' and only a few have shaped that stage like William Shakespeare. Every April 23, we celebrate Shakespeare Day, honoring one of England's greatest playwrights and poets. This date is special as it marks both his birth and death. Born in 1564, Shakespeare revolutionized English literature with unforgettable works like 'Hamlet,' 'Macbeth,' and 'Romeo and Juliet.' Four centuries after his death, his influence remains undeniable—his stories continue to captivate, challenge, and inspire.


date: 2025-04-24
filename: KenaiSpires_EN-US3294247007.jpg
title: Rugged peaks and wild waters
copyright: Spire Cove in Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Alaska (© Wander Photography/Getty Images)
story:
As National Park Week rolls on, let's turn our attention to Kenai Fjords National Park, a gem on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula. Stretching over 1,000 square miles, this landscape features fjords, river valleys, and alpine landscapes. More than half of the terrain is blanketed in ice. Throughout the 20th century, the park's glaciers have receded, uncovering new land for plant and animal life to take root. From ancient Sitka spruces to delicate fireweed shoots and moss carpeting the forest floor, plant life in Kenai Fjords flourishes. The park is also home to diverse terrestrial and marine mammals, including timber wolves, porcupines, Canadian lynxes, and cetaceans like orcas and fin whales. It also hosts a variety of birds, such as bald eagles and Peale's peregrine falcons.


date: 2025-04-25
filename: MagellanicPenguin_EN-US3332048594.jpg
title: Tuxedoed mariners
copyright: Magellanic penguins, Volunteer Point, Falkland Islands (© imageBROKER/Matthias Graben/Getty Images)
story:
Cute, clumsy, and completely captivating, penguins steal the show today. World Penguin Day is all about celebrating these flightless birds while raising awareness about their habitats. This day originated at McMurdo Station, an American research center on Ross Island in Antarctica, where scientists observed Adélie penguins starting their yearly migration around this time. Inspired by this natural event, the observance was created to shed light on penguins' role in the ecosystem, the threats they face, and the urgency of protecting their habitats.


date: 2025-04-26
filename: RedwoodGrove_EN-US3412092024.jpg
title: Park it here
copyright: Grove of redwoods in Redwood National and State Parks, California (© Bob Pool/Getty Images)
story:
Step into a world where trees touch the sky. The redwood groves of Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) in California are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, soaring over 370 feet high. The combined RNSP contain Redwood National Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Some of these redwoods were alive when the Mayans built their temples, and the Great Wall of China was under construction. Protected since 1968, the park preserves nearly half of the world's remaining old-growth redwoods.


date: 2025-04-27
filename: KilaueaCaldera_EN-US7764962675.jpg
title: A scene of wild beauty
copyright:
Halema'uma'u Crater's lava lake, Kīlauea Caldera, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii (© Stephen Matera/Tandem Stills + Motion)

story:
As National Park Week wraps up today, let's explore a park in a land sculpted by fire and time—Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. The Halema'uma'u Crater is an intermittent lava lake in Kīlauea, one of Earth's most active volcanoes. Since it was first documented in 1823, volcanic activity has caused the crater to fill with lava, partially collapse, erupt in fountains of lava, expand to twice its size on two occasions, and at times fill with groundwater. All this activity demonstrates the unpredictable raw power that lies below the surface of the Earth. The natural and cultural importance of this site led to the establishment of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park in 1916, and to it being named a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site in the 1980s.


date: 2025-04-28
filename: OrangeImpala_EN-US3494359572.jpg
title: Pause and pose
copyright: Impala with red-billed oxpecker in Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana (© Paul Souders/Getty Images)
story:
Here's a place where the wild rules and nature moves at its own pace. Moremi Game Reserve stretches across the eastern side of Botswana's Okavango Delta, covering 1,900 square miles. Established in 1963, it became Africa's first reserve created by local people—the Batawana, a Bantu ethnic group native to Southern Africa—to protect the region's wildlife from uncontrolled hunting. The combination of permanent water and dry land makes it one of the best places in Africa to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.


date: 2025-04-29
filename: GardensVillandry_EN-US3529015856.jpg
title: Geometry in bloom
copyright: Formal garden at Château de Villandry, Loire Valley, France (© Mint Images/Getty Images)
story:
The grass truly is greener on the other side—especially when that side is Château de Villandry. While the Loire Valley in France is packed with stunning châteaux (French for castles), Villandry stands apart, not for its towering turrets or medieval might, but for its gardens. Built in the 16th century by Jean le Breton, a minister to King Francis I, Villandry was always meant to impress. Unlike fortified castles built for war, it was designed for comfort, featuring large windows and an open, welcoming layout. Its gardens are arranged across terraces with distinct themes. The ornamental garden showcases geometric patterns like the one pictured here. The water garden offers a serene retreat, and the vegetable garden turns everyday crops into artistic displays.


date: 2025-04-30
filename: ColtraneBand_EN-US3561448385.jpg
title: All that jazz and more
copyright:
Jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and band performing in 1961 in London, England (© Popperfoto/Getty Images)

story:
It's time to jazz up—literally. From the smoky clubs of New Orleans to the bustling streets of Tokyo, jazz has crossed borders, blended cultures, and turned improvisation into an art form. Every April 30, International Jazz Day—established by UNESCO in 2011—celebrates this genre's role in promoting peace, dialogue, and unity. This music form emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in New Orleans, a city alive with musical traditions from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. Rooted in blues and ragtime, jazz quickly evolved, with pioneers like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald giving it a voice. What started as an American sound soon found a global audience. Swing and bebop took over dance halls, Latin jazz brought a new rhythm, and cool jazz mellowed the mood.


date: 2025-05-01
filename: PinkPlumeria_EN-US3595771407.jpg
title: A fragrant tradition
copyright: Plumeria flowers, Hawaii (© Miranda Jans/Getty Images)
story:
Today, while the world celebrates May Day with parades and protests, Hawaii takes a more fragrant approach—by draping itself in flowers. On May 1, Hawaii celebrates Lei Day, a tradition that honors culture, craftsmanship, and the ever-present aloha spirit, described as 'the coordination of mind and heart within each person.' Since 1928, this Hawaiian tradition has been in full bloom, with leis—or garlands made of flowers, leaves, or shells—serving as symbols of connection. The idea for Lei Day came from poet Don Blanding, who suggested a holiday dedicated to Hawaii's iconic floral garlands. Local writer Grace Tower Warren gave it its slogan, 'May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii,' and the tradition quickly took root.


date: 2025-05-02
filename: BrazilHeron_EN-US5602369723.jpg
title: Sailing solo
copyright: Striated heron on a Victoria water lily, Pantanal, Brazil (© Gerald Corsi/Getty Images)
story:
In the lush Pantanal wetlands of Brazil, a striated heron perches on a Victoria water lily. This water bird, also known as the mangrove heron, is about 16 inches tall. It is a master of patience, waiting to ambush its prey. It uses clever tactics, such as dropping feathers or insects to lure fish. Common in the wetlands of South America, the striated heron is also found in North America, Australia, Africa, Asia, New Guinea, and the Pacific islands.


date: 2025-05-03
filename: ArchesGalaxy_EN-US5690613383.jpg
title: Let's celebrate the cosmos
copyright: The Milky Way framed by Double Arch in Arches National Park, Utah (© Adventure_Photo/Getty Images)
story:
Ever wondered what Saturn's rings look like through a telescope? Or how astronomers spot distant galaxies? International Astronomy Day is the perfect time to find out. This annual event, first launched in 1973, is all about 'Bringing Astronomy to the People'—the official theme of Astronomy Day. From local parks to astronomy clubs, museums, and observatories, visitors can enjoy activities like telescope viewings, space talks, and even moon gravity simulators.


date: 2025-05-04
filename: SevilleNaboo_EN-US5814352031.jpg
title: Welcome to planet Naboo!
copyright: Plaza de España, Seville, Spain (© Horia Merla/Getty Images)
story:
On May 4, 'Star Wars' fans celebrate Star Wars Day, a tribute to the beloved franchise created by George Lucas. The film series consists of nine movies, collectively referred to as the 'Skywalker Saga.' One of the memorable filming locations is Plaza de España in Seville, Spain, as seen in today's image. This beautiful square, with its semi-elliptical shape and stunning architecture, was used as the city of Theed on the planet Naboo. The scene where Senator Amidala arrives in Naboo, featuring Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen, was filmed here. Plaza de España's unique design, with its central building, towers, and fountain, adds a touch of magic to the Star Wars universe. This historic square, designed by Aníbal González, was originally built for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1929.


date: 2025-05-05
filename: CincoFlags_EN-US5873749093.jpg
title: Viva Mexico!
copyright: Paper flags strung over a street in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (© William Zinn/Getty Images)
story:
Cinco de Mayo, or the Fifth of May, marks the Mexican army's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While it is only celebrated sporadically in Mexico, it has become a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and heritage in the US, especially in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston. This holiday is often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, but that falls on September 16. Instead, Cinco de Mayo honors Mexico's fight against foreign rule and symbolizes resilience and unity. The battle itself was brief, lasting from daybreak to early evening, but the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, managed to defeat a much larger and better-equipped French force. Today, Cinco de Mayo festivities feature parades, mariachi music, folk dancing, and delicious foods like tacos and mole poblano. Whether you're joining a festival or just enjoying a plate of Mexican cuisine, it's a great day to appreciate Mexico's rich history and traditions. Viva Mexico!


date: 2025-05-06
filename: FlyoverNamibia_EN-US6033011196.jpg
title: Not your average desert trip
copyright: An ultralight aircraft flying over the sands of Namibia (© Burt Johnson/Alamy)
story:
Imagine soaring through the skies in an ultralight aircraft, the wind rushing past as you take in the picturesque views. Below, the world's oldest desert, the Namib, stretches endlessly, shaped by winds over 55 million years. This is Namibia—a surreal landscape of towering dunes, dry riverbeds, and shifting sands.


date: 2025-05-07
filename: DunluceIreland_EN-US6236791025.jpg
title: Castle on the rocks
copyright: Dunluce Castle, County Antrim, Northern Ireland (© DieterMeyrl/Getty Images)
story:
If Dunluce Castle, pictured here, feels like something straight out of 'Game of Thrones,' that's because it is the real-life inspiration for Pyke, the seat of House Greyjoy. Built in the 13th century, this castle in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, was once a stronghold of the MacDonnells of Antrim, a branch of the Clan MacDonnell that played a key role in Irish politics from the 15th to the 17th century. The family's fortunes declined after the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, and with little money for upkeep, the castle gradually fell into ruin.


date: 2025-05-08
filename: RhyoliteDonkeys_EN-US6439068828.jpg
title: A day to bray about
copyright: Donkeys in a valley near Rhyolite, Nevada (© Moelyn Photos/Getty Images)
story:
On May 8 each year, donkeys get their moment in the sun—though they'd probably prefer the shade. World Donkey Day, established by Dr. Abdul Raziq Kakar, a livestock expert from Pakistan, is all about celebrating these hardworking animals. Donkeys have a reputation for being stubborn, but that's just a misunderstanding. They're actually cautious thinkers. Unlike horses, which might bolt at danger, donkeys take a moment to assess the situation before reacting. From ancient trade routes to modern farms, donkeys have been essential to transportation and agriculture. In many parts of the world, they're still the backbone of rural economies, carrying supplies across difficult terrain where vehicles can't go. Despite their vital role, donkeys face serious challenges. Many endure overwork, poor treatment, and abandonment.


date: 2025-05-09
filename: CuteChameleon_EN-US6483346105.jpg
title: Blending in and standing out
copyright: Common chameleon (© Photostock-Israel/SPL/Getty Images)
story:
One moment they're blending in, the next they're flaunting a new shade—chameleons really know how to color the world. But every May 9, these masters of disguise can't hide from the spotlight. International Chameleon Day celebrates their color-shifting skills, zippy tongues, and wild adaptations. Chameleons change colors to help regulate their body temperature, attract mates, and communicate with others. Specialized skin cells, including iridophores, reflect light to create dazzling displays. Some species turn bright to signal aggression, while others adopt subdued tones to avoid attention.


date: 2025-05-10
filename: MinnesotaRotunda_EN-US6605011856.jpg
title: Gilded glory
copyright: Minnesota State Capitol, St. Paul, Minnesota (© lavin photography/Getty Images)
story:
A grand and gilded sight—the heart of the Minnesota State Capitol is waiting to be explored. Home to the Minnesota Senate, the House of Representatives, the governor's office, and the attorney general's office, this building also houses a chamber for the Minnesota Supreme Court. Designed in the Beaux-Arts and American Renaissance styles, the Capitol integrates modern materials like iron, glass, and steel. The term 'Beaux-Arts' was not used when the Capitol was built, but the style gained popularity, partly due to the architecture showcased at the 1893 Chicago World's Columbian Exposition. Architect Cass Gilbert's design features a remarkable dome, which is inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. Featured in today's image, it is the second-largest self-supported marble dome in the world.


date: 2025-05-11
filename: LeopardMother_EN-US6709981831.jpg
title: Celebrating motherhood feline style
copyright: Leopard mother grooming her cub, Jao Reserve, Botswana (© Suzi Eszterhas/Minden Pictures)
story:
From warm hugs to wise guidance, moms give it all. Mother's Day is a time to honor the women who shape our lives, celebrating motherhood, unbreakable bonds, and their lasting impact on society. While the modern American version of this holiday began in the early 20th century, the celebration of motherhood has existed for centuries across cultures. Social activist Anna Jarvis led the inaugural Mother's Day worship service in 1908 at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia, now home to the International Mother's Day Shrine.


date: 2025-05-12
filename: IrisGarden_EN-US6778843108.jpg
title: Waves of purple
copyright: An iris garden in Tokyo, Japan (© M.Arai/Getty Images)
story:
Flower viewing is a beloved tradition in Japan, with each season bringing its own natural spectacle. Just as the last sakura (cherry blossom) petals drift away, Tokyo's gardens start gearing up for their next big show: the iris bloom. Featured here is an iris garden in Tokyo. The iris is a flowering plant genus that has 310 recognized species, known for their bold and beautiful blossoms. The genus is named after the Greek word 'îris', meaning 'rainbow,' which is also the name of the Greek goddess of rainbows.


date: 2025-05-13
filename: TorresChile_EN-US6814348961.jpg
title: 66 and still gorgeous
copyright: Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile (© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images)
story:
Wildlife roams freely in one of Chile's most stunning protected areas, where towering peaks and ancient glaciers shape the land. Established on this day in 1959, Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia turns 66 years old today and covers over 448,000 acres. Originally called Grey Lake National Tourism Park, it was renamed in 1970 and later designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978. Its most recognizable feature—the three massive granite peaks known as the Torres—stands over 8,000 feet tall. These formations took shape through magma intrusion and uplift, followed by millions of years of glacial erosion, leaving behind the jagged spires seen today.


date: 2025-05-14
filename: SardiniaFlavia_EN-US6889153804.jpg
title: Ore and more
copyright: Porto Flavia, Sardinia, Italy (© Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images)
story:
Most ports rely on docks and cranes that extend into the shoreline. Porto Flavia on the Italian island of Sardinia took a completely different approach. This engineering marvel transformed a cliff into a gateway for Sardinia's ore industry. Mining in the area has a history dating back thousands of years, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the industrial boom in the 20th century. Lead, zinc, coal, sulfur, barium, and silver were extracted from these rugged hills, but transporting them was a logistical nightmare. Ore had to be hauled by cart, loaded onto small boats, and then transferred to larger ships—a slow, costly, and inefficient process.


date: 2025-05-15
filename: LondonParliament_EN-US7213846564.jpg
title: London o'clock
copyright: Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, London, England (© Puthipong Worasaran/Getty Images)
story:
London's most famous clock tower isn't called Big Ben—that name belongs to the massive 13.5-ton bell inside. The Great Clock has marked time for Londoners since 1859, ringing from what is now known as the Elizabeth Tower. In 2012, officials renamed the Clock Tower as Elizabeth Tower to honor Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee. At 316 feet tall, the tower is part of the grand Palace of Westminster. The clock has stopped only for maintenance and rare disruptions, such as bomb damage during each world war. Each of its four clock faces spans 22.5 feet, with the minute hands measuring 14 feet.


date: 2025-05-16
filename: GreenMacaw_EN-US1646325635.jpg
title: Celebrate saving species
copyright: Great green macaw, Mexico (© Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock)
story:
Each year on the third Friday of May, people worldwide recognize Endangered Species Day—a day to celebrate, learn about, and act on behalf of at-risk wildlife. First launched in 2006 by the Endangered Species Coalition and conservationist David Robinson, this event inspires local and global efforts to protect threatened animals and their habitats.


date: 2025-05-17
filename: VeniceLagoon_EN-US3686079353.jpg
title: The Venetian 'dolce vita'
copyright: A delta in the Venetian Lagoon, Italy (© Dimitri Weber/Amazing Aerial Agency)
story:
Pictured here is a spectacular view of a delta in the Venetian Lagoon, Italy. Spanning over 212 square miles, this lagoon is a rich mosaic of islands, mudflats, canals, and marshes, and it's one of the largest wetlands in the entire Mediterranean Basin. The lagoon isn't just a scenic wonder—it's a place steeped in history and innovation. Formed after the last Ice Age, it became a refuge for people fleeing invasions around the time of the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476. In the centuries that followed, those early settlers began building what would eventually become the iconic city of Venice.


date: 2025-05-18
filename: DufyRoom_EN-US3759763345.jpg
title: Let's visit a museum today
copyright:
'The Spirit of Electricity' by Raoul Dufy, Museum of Modern Art, Paris, France (© BERTRAND GUAY/AFP via Getty Images)

story:
This International Museum Day, let's immerse ourselves in Raoul Dufy's 6,460 square-foot fresco. The 'La Fée Electricité' (The Spirit of Electricity) is housed at the Museum of Modern Art in Paris. This stunning artwork was created for the Pavilion of Light and Electricity at the 1937 International Exhibition of Art and Technology in Modern Life. The painting was inspired by the poem 'On the Nature of Things,' written by Roman poet and philosopher Lucretius. Raoul Dufy's work vividly depicts the evolution of electricity through two main themes: the history of electricity and its applications.


date: 2025-05-19
filename: MountHamilton_EN-US3808058743.jpg
title: Twists and turns of Mount Hamilton
copyright: Mount Hamilton, near San Jose, California (© Jeffrey Lewis/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Drive up Mount Hamilton just east of San Jose, California, and immerse yourself in stunning views and rich history. The 19-mile Mount Hamilton Road is loved by cyclists and motorcyclists for its long climbs and sparse traffic. Built in 1875-76, the road was designed to transport materials to the Lick Observatory, the world's first permanently occupied mountaintop observatory. On a clear day, you can see as far as Yosemite National Park or the Sierra Nevada from the 4,265-foot summit.


date: 2025-05-20
filename: HoneyBeeLavender_EN-US3860322899.jpg
title: Small wings, big job
copyright: Honey bee on lavender flowers (© Anthony Brown/Alamy)
story:
Honey bees may be small, but without them, your grocery list would be a lot shorter. No more berries, avocados, or even coffee. Alongside butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds, bees pollinate nearly 90% of the world's wild flowering plants and over 35% of the food crops we rely on. World Bee Day, marked every May 20, honors these vital pollinators and celebrates Anton Janša, a pioneer of modern beekeeping. Janša saw bees as the noblest of insects, an idea now backed by science.


date: 2025-05-21
filename: SongyangTeaGarden_EN-US3919106941.jpg
title: Teatime
copyright: Tea garden at Yangjiatang Village, Songyang County, China (© feng xu/Getty Images)
story:
Legend says that it began with a single leaf drifting into a pot of boiling water in ancient China. Centuries later, tea is the second-most consumed drink in the world (after water). Today is International Tea Day, a global nod to this timeless beverage, established by the United Nations to recognize tea's role in reducing poverty and supporting sustainable development. It's a day to honor both the drink and the people who are part of this industry.


date: 2025-05-22
filename: BaobabAvenue_EN-US3968050605.jpg
title: Baobab boulevard
copyright: Baobab trees at sunset, Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar (© Framalicious/Shutterstock)
story:
Life on Earth, from tiny bacteria to towering trees, is interconnected. International Day for Biological Diversity is about celebrating this web of life that keeps our planet thriving. Biodiversity ties into everything, from sustainable farming and clean water to climate action and disaster preparedness. A decline in biodiversity can increase the spread of zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans. In contrast, protecting biodiversity strengthens our ability to prevent and respond to health crises like pandemics. Recognizing its crucial role for current and future generations, the United Nations observes this day each year to raise awareness and foster action for conserving the planet's biological treasures.


date: 2025-05-23
filename: ButterflyTurtle_EN-US4083359630.jpg
title: Shell yeah!
copyright:
A Julia butterfly on the nose of a yellow-spotted river turtle, Amazon Region, Ecuador (© Westend61/Getty Images)

story:
No need to hurry, because today marks the 25th anniversary of World Turtle Day. Turtles and tortoises thrive in a variety of environments and are linked to wisdom and perseverance. All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises. While turtles are smaller and built for swimming, tortoises are larger, heavier, and adapted for life on land. The American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) established World Turtle Day to raise awareness and protection efforts on May 23 each year. ATR has helped rehabilitate, rescue, and rehome around 4,000 turtles and tortoises, working to protect them and their disappearing habitats.


date: 2025-05-24
filename: JotunheimenPark_EN-US4200824377.jpg
title: Europe's wild side
copyright: Jotunheimen National Park in Norway (© Marisa Estivill/Shutterstock)
story:
Today, European Day of Parks celebrates the national parks and conservation areas that shape a country's natural identity. Created by the EUROPARC Federation in 1999, this day commemorates the founding of Europe's first national parks—a set of nine parks established in Sweden in 1909. It promotes efforts to protect natural habitats, wildlife, and cultural heritage while encouraging sustainable tourism and outdoor activities.


date: 2025-05-25
filename: ButchartFlowers_EN-US3361647368.jpg
title: Bloom where you're planted
copyright: Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada (© 2009fotofriends/Shutterstock)
story:
What was a depleted quarry over a century ago now transforms into a living color wheel each spring. Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, knows how to put on a bloom show. In spring, roses scent the air, tulips line the paths, and something new blooms around every turn. But it didn't always look this way. In the early 1900s, Robert Pim Butchart operated a limestone quarry here. His wife, Jennie, saw potential in the depleted pit and began planting flowers in 1904. Now spread across 55 acres, the garden is home to more than 900 plant species—and each spring, almost 300,000 bulbs bloom.


date: 2025-05-26
filename: ArlingtonSunrise_EN-US4503302075.jpg
title: Honoring the fallen
copyright: Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia (© Dennis Govoni/Getty Images)
story:
Today we're honoring Americans who gave their lives in military service. Originally known as Decoration Day, the tradition began in the late 1860s after the American Civil War. Communities held springtime tributes by decorating the graves of fallen Union soldiers with flowers. Over time, it expanded to commemorate all US military personnel who died in wars. Locals observe the day with ceremonies and parades across the country.


date: 2025-05-27
filename: MonaValePool_EN-US4805820773.jpg
title: A shore thing
copyright: Mona Vale Rockpool, Sydney, Australia (© jamenpercy/Getty Images)
story:
Ever wanted to swim in the ocean without accidentally drinking half of it? Enter Mona Vale Rockpool in Sydney, Australia—a watery paradox where the ocean is wild beyond the walls and well-behaved within its calm, contained edges. Perched in Sydney's Northern Beaches area—this rock pool feels more like a natural wonder than a human-made one. Built in the 1930s during the Depression, it was carved out of a natural rock shelf as part of an unemployment relief scheme. Upgraded over time, the pool is nearly 100 feet long and flanked by a smaller children's pool. The pools are free, open year-round, and cleaned regularly by both council crews and the ocean itself. So next time you are in Sydney, make a splash where the waves meet the wall. It's a shore thing.


date: 2025-05-28
filename: KelpOtter_EN-US4867923884.jpg
title: Otterly important
copyright:
Sea otter floating in a kelp bed in Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge (© Gerry Ellis/Minden Pictures)

story:
They slip through the water like furry torpedoes, roll on riverbanks like children on a playground, and hold hands while they nap. Otters are nature's playful pranksters, but their future isn't all smooth sailing. Many species are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade. But it doesn't have to be that way. On World Otter Day—the last Wednesday of May—let's shine a light on the challenges these lovable mammals face and help protect their place in the wild.


date: 2025-05-29
filename: MiravetSpain_EN-US4967052818.jpg
title: Flowing through the centuries
copyright: Miravet on the Ebro River, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain (© Eloi_Omella/Getty Images)
story:
Some towns live in the present. Miravet in Spain politely declined. Clinging to a cliff above the River Ebro, this Catalan village offers a living glimpse into the Middle Ages. A castle keeps its perch, potters spin like it's the 1300s, and the local ferry still refuses to join the motor age. Welcome to the village where even the river seems too relaxed to rush. As Spain's longest river, the Ebro winds through tales of Iberians, Romans, Moors, and Knights Templar. Locals once relied on its waters for trade, transport, and even defense. Today, you'll spot kayakers, ferry boats, and visitors drifting through the same currents where Crusaders once crossed.


date: 2025-05-30
filename: LittlePigeonRiver_EN-US1765916005.jpg
title: Flowing through the Smokies
copyright: Little Pigeon River, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee (© GreenStock/Getty Images)
story:
You'll hear it before you see it. The steady ripple, the splash of trout, the distant laughter of hikers. That's the Little Pigeon River, threading its way through Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Long before tourists tubed it and fly fishers angled in it, this river was how people stayed afloat. The Cherokee tribe fished in it. Settlers built grist mills along it. Towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge grew up next to it. Even the river's name is a nod to the past—the passenger pigeon, once common in the area, vanished by the early 1900s.


date: 2025-05-31
filename: SwedenReserve_EN-US8234763267.jpg
title: An ancient glacial landscape
copyright: Knuthöjdsmossen, a nature reserve in Sweden (© Sven Halling/DEEPOL/plainpicture)
story:
Discover Knuthöjdsmossen, a nature reserve that covers almost 250 acres near the city of Hällefors, Sweden. This tranquil haven features a boardwalk that meanders through a bog, showcasing several small lakes, sand dunes, marshes, and pines.


date: 2025-06-01
filename: GrandeTerreReef_EN-US8351815569.jpg
title: Under the sea
copyright:
Barrier reef off the island of Grande Terre in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia (© Karsten Wrobel/Getty Images)

story:
'Life under the sea is better than anything they got up there,' Sebastian the crab once told Ariel. But are we doing enough to protect that underwater world? On June 1, we celebrate World Reef Awareness Day, a time to recognize the beauty—and fragility—of coral reef ecosystems. One magnificent example is the New Caledonian barrier reef, which wraps around Grande Terre, New Caledonia's largest island. At over 930 miles long, it's one of the longest continuous barrier reefs in the world. Its vast 9,300-square-mile lagoon is home to over 2,300 fish species, endangered dugongs, green sea turtles, and migrating humpback whales.


date: 2025-06-02
filename: EchinaceaButterfly_EN-US8404044892.jpg
title: Flower power
copyright:
Skipper butterfly on a coneflower, Rockefeller State Park Preserve, New York (© Marianne A. Campolongo/Alamy)

story:
This year, the first week of June marks National Garden Week—a time to celebrate the joy of gardening and the beauty it brings to our lives. Gardening not only connects us to nature but also boosts our mental health and physical well-being. Just spending time outdoors provides Vitamin D from the sun, which helps our bones stay strong and supports a healthy immune system.


date: 2025-06-03
filename: BicyclesUtrecht_EN-US8449213938.jpg
title: Break for joy
copyright: Bicycles on a bridge in Utrecht, Netherlands (© George Pachantouris/Getty Images)
story:
If there's one place that brings the cycling spirit to life, it's the Netherlands. For World Bicycle Day, today's image captures bicycles lined up on a bridge in the Dutch city of Utrecht. More than half the journeys around the city happen on bikes, surpassing cars and other modes of travel. Nearly everyone lives within 15 minutes of essentials—and over 90% of residents can reach key places in just 10 minutes. This wasn't always the case. It was only in the 1970s, sparked by an oil crisis, rising car-related issues, and strong social movements, that the Netherlands started prioritizing bikes over cars. Since then, cities have embraced bike-friendly streets, dedicated lanes, and traffic lights for cyclists. And thanks to the famously flat landscape, cycling here feels as natural as walking.


date: 2025-06-04
filename: CalaLuna_EN-US8760708047.jpg
title: Crisp blues, sharp views
copyright: The beach at Cala Luna, Sardinia, Italy (© guenterguni/Getty Images)
story:
The island of Sardinia in Italy, with its rugged cliffs, secret beaches, and endless shades of blue, is undeniably a Mediterranean treasure. On the island's eastern coast lies Cala Luna, featured here—a beach in the Gulf of Orosei. Rising at the mouth of Rio Illune, this beach is at the end of the Codula di Luna canyon. It is a haven of golden sand, surrounded by white cliffs that rise more than 950 feet into the sky—perfect for rock climbing.


date: 2025-06-05
filename: OlivaresMural_EN-US8824492734.jpg
title: Recycling never looked so good
copyright:
Bottle-cap mural made by Oscar Olivares in Guatire, Venezuela (© FEDERICO PARRA/AFP via Getty Images)

story:
A global shoutout to the planet we all call home. On World Environment Day, the world hits pause to reflect and act for a greener future. Led by the United Nations Environment Programme, this day has been observed annually on June 5 since 1973. This year, hosted by the Republic of Korea, the event focuses on ending plastic pollution. Plastic contamination has crept into every part of the world—from oceans and forests to our own bodies in the form of microplastics. This year's campaign aims to spark change at every level of society.


date: 2025-06-06
filename: NormandyBeach_EN-US8863709180.jpg
title: The day the tide turned
copyright: Arromanches-les-Bains in Normandy, France (© Horia Merla/Getty Images)
story:
Today, on the anniversary of D-Day, we reflect on one of the most defining moments in modern history. On June 6, 1944, over 156,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, France, launching Operation Overlord, also known as D-Day. This complex assault, involving coordinated air, sea, and land forces, marked the beginning of the campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi control.


date: 2025-06-07
filename: PacificCrestTrail_EN-US8903844619.jpg
title: Taking the high road
copyright:
Summit of Pine Mountain, Angeles National Forest, California (© Matthew Kuhns/TANDEM Stills + Motion)

story:
Today, we celebrate the paths that connect us with nature and adventure. Angeles National Forest in Southern California is home to towering pines and rugged ridgelines, and hosts a stretch of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Winding over about 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, the PCT is the ultimate thru-hiking dream. Designated a National Scenic Trail in 1968, it traverses seven national parks, 25 national forests, and provides a unique lens through which to experience the dramatic landscapes of the American West. But you don't need to go the distance to enjoy its magic. In Southern California, portions of the trail through the San Gabriel Mountains offer great views and rewarding day hikes.


date: 2025-06-08
filename: StellarSeaLions_EN-US8941740506.jpg
title: Hello from the other side
copyright:
Steller sea lions, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada (© Steve Woods Photography/Getty Images)

story:
You can't talk about life on Earth without talking about the ocean. This year, World Oceans Day is being celebrated in Nice, France, just ahead of the UN Ocean Conference starting tomorrow. Officially recognized by the United Nations since 2008, it began as an idea at the 1992 Global Forum, a parallel event at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. This year's theme is 'WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us.' It highlights how the ocean supports life as we know it—influencing weather, food chains, and economies.


date: 2025-06-09
filename: DubrovnikTwilight_EN-US9005720216.jpg
title: Explore King's Landing
copyright: Old City of Dubrovnik in Dalmatia, Croatia (© bluejayphoto/Getty Images)
story:
There is something mesmerizing about cities that wear their history on their sleeves—and Dubrovnik, Croatia, is one of them. Once known as the independent Republic of Ragusa, this city was a major maritime power and trading hub from the 14th to the 19th century. Situated in southern Dalmatia along the Adriatic Sea, its success was built on diplomacy and seafaring. The Walls of Dubrovnik, built between the 13th and 17th centuries, stretch for over 1.2 miles, with towers, forts, and bastions still standing strong. The current layout of the walls follows a city plan from 1292, when Dubrovnik was rebuilt after a fire under Venetian rule.


date: 2025-06-10
filename: AerialEverglades_EN-US9045585896.jpg
title: A river of grass
copyright: Aerial view of Everglades National Park, Florida (© Robert DelVecchio - OcuDrone/Getty Images)
story:
Wouldn't it be great to see our reflection from above in this vast expanse of water? Everglades National Park, located in Florida, is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, spanning more than 1.5 million acres. It protects the southern 20% of the original Everglades and is home to numerous rare and endangered species, including the Florida panther, American crocodile, and West Indian manatee. Often referred to as 'River of Grass,' the park's unique ecosystem, fed by a slow-moving river from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay, is a significant breeding ground for tropical wading birds. Everglades National Park is not only a national treasure but also an international one, recognized as a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance.


date: 2025-06-11
filename: FlamingosNamibia_EN-US9397449472.jpg
title: A tidal ballet
copyright: Greater flamingos, Lüderitz, Namibia (© Karine Aigner/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
In Lüderitz, Namibia, these birds aren't just passing through—they're standing their ground. Literally. On one leg. These long-legged locals, the greater flamingos, bring a splash of pink to Namibia's windswept Atlantic coast. These birds are the largest of their kind, and they're not shy about showing off. Towering up to 59 inches tall with spoon-shaped bills and stilt-like legs, they're easy to spot.


date: 2025-06-12
filename: BigBendChisos_EN-US9433220487.jpg
title: Stars, stone, and solitude
copyright: Chisos Mountains, Big Bend National Park, Texas (© Dean Fikar/Getty Images)
story:
They say everything's bigger in Texas—and Big Bend National Park has been living up to the slogan since forever. Efforts to preserve this 801,163-acre area of West Texas began in the 1930s and culminated in its official designation as a park on June 12, 1944. Big Bend remains one of the most remote and least-visited national parks in the country. It's not just one landscape, it's three: the Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains (pictured here), and the Rio Grande. Big Bend sits on the US–Mexico border, and its history reflects that blend. Indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, ranchers, miners, and modern travelers have all left their footprints. Petroglyphs, ruins, and old trails show the land's story began long before it became a park.


date: 2025-06-13
filename: SanMiguelAzores_EN-US2785372768.jpg
title: The ocean's hidden heartbeat
copyright: Vila Franca Islet, São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal (© ARoxo/Getty Images)
story:
Not far from São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago of Portugal, you'll find Vila Franca Islet. This uninhabited green islet sits quietly just south of the town of Vila Franca do Campo. Beneath its serene surface, this gem holds a lively past. First documented in 1537, around the time when settlers from São Miguel began expanding westward, Vila Franca Islet has played many roles throughout its history. It has served as a military fort, a port, a vineyard site, and even a lookout for whale-watching.


date: 2025-06-14
filename: FlagCapitolDC_EN-US1553861171.jpg
title: Waving with pride
copyright: Flag display at the US Capitol, Washington, DC (© kmiragaya/Adobe Stock)
story:
Every June 14, we celebrate national pride and the fabric that unites us—the American flag. It was only when Congress passed the Flag Resolution on June 14, 1777, that the Stars and Stripes design was adopted as the official flag of the United States. To commemorate this historic milestone, then-president Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day in 1916—a tribute to the banner that came to represent America's identity, values, and unity.


date: 2025-06-15
filename: RheaDad_EN-US1643943847.jpg
title: Feathered father figure
copyright:
Lesser rhea adult male with chicks, Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile (© Ignacio Yufera/Minden Pictures)

story:
For Father's Day, we're featuring a male lesser rhea (aka Darwin's rhea) with his chicks in Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile. From the moment the chicks hatch, the male lesser rhea takes full charge—guiding them through the brush, communicating with gentle whistles, and sheltering them under his wings in times of danger or cold. Remarkably, he often adopts lost chicks, raising a mixed-age brood. For nearly 6 months, this bird father teaches and protects the chicks, with many staying close until maturity. Talk about going above and beyond for your kids!


date: 2025-06-16
filename: SeaTurtleBrazil_EN-US1789042400.jpg
title: Ancient swimmers, modern struggles
copyright: Sea turtle, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil (© João Vianna/Getty Images)
story:
They've got built-in helmets, a slow-and-steady vibe, and zero interest in your deadlines. Sea turtles, like this one photographed in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, have been cruising Earth's oceans since before T-rex was a thing. Today, World Sea Turtle Day, is about recognizing these ancient navigators and the role they play in keeping our oceans in balance. Why June 16? The date marks the birthday of American conservationist Archie Carr, known as the father of sea turtle conservation. His work laid the foundation for understanding turtle behavior and fighting for their protection.


date: 2025-06-17
filename: CumberlandOaks_EN-US1850139942.jpg
title: Coastal quiet, untamed life
copyright:
Maritime forest in Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia (© Chris Moore/TANDEM Stills + Motion)

story:
Before you hit the beach, you'll hear it—the rustle of leaves in salty air, the creak of twisted trunks, the hush of an old world. Welcome to the maritime forest of Cumberland Island National Seashore on the southernmost stretch of Georgia's Atlantic coast. Salt spray, sandy soil, hurricanes? The trees here stand their ground. Live oaks bend but don't break. Saw palmettos crowd the ground like leafy bodyguards, while Spanish moss hangs from branches like nature's fringe. This maritime forest is one of the best remaining examples of this rare habitat in the United States. Thanks to its national seashore status, the island has been spared from the concrete creep seen on other coastlines.


date: 2025-06-18
filename: AsianSwallowtail_EN-US1924189362.jpg
title: Let the pollinating games begin!
copyright: Asian swallowtail butterfly on a red spider lily (© lzh/Getty Images)
story:
Pollinator Week is in full bloom! This year's celebration takes place from June 16 to 22. It shines a spotlight on the birds, bats, bees, butterflies, beetles, and other animals that help pollinate nearly 90% of flowering plants—including many of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts we love. Featured here is the Asian swallowtail, captured on a red spider lily. Found across Northeast Asia and even parts of Hawaii, this striking butterfly uses its keen color vision to find flowers, especially those from citrus families. While it is common and not currently threatened, its role as a pollinator is no less important.


date: 2025-06-19
filename: TexasCapitol_EN-US1992205396.jpg
title: Celebrating freedom and resilience
copyright: Texas State Capitol in Austin (© joe daniel price/Getty Images)
story:
Every year on June 19, the United States marks Juneteenth National Independence Day, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery. On this day in 1865—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued—Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that over 250,000 enslaved people were finally free. Texas was the last Confederate state to enforce freedom, making Juneteenth a powerful symbol of delayed justice and ultimate liberation.


date: 2025-06-20
filename: IcelandSolstice_EN-US2057542769.jpg
title: All set for sunset
copyright: Seljalandsfoss waterfall at sunset, Iceland (© Tom Mackie/AWL/plainpicture)
story:
Experience the magic of the summer solstice at Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland. Today, the Northern Hemisphere celebrates the longest day of the year, when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. Seljalandsfoss, located along Iceland's South Coast, offers a stunning backdrop for this astronomical event.


date: 2025-06-21
filename: SerengetiGiraffe_EN-US2127484447.jpg
title: Spot the spots
copyright: Masai giraffe mother grooming her calf in the Serengeti, Tanzania (© Alberto Cassani/Getty Images)
story:
World Giraffe Day, celebrated on June 21, is a perfect opportunity to learn about the Serengeti and its iconic Masai giraffes. This annual event, organized by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, raises awareness about the declining giraffe population, which has decreased by nearly 30% over the past 35 years.


date: 2025-06-22
filename: AmazonEcuador_EN-US2195278379.jpg
title: Jungle all the way
copyright: Amazon rainforest, Ecuador (© Mark Fox/Getty Images)
story:
World Rainforest Day is not just a calendar event—it's a call to action. Established in 2017 by Rainforest Partnership—a nonprofit environmental organization—the day raises awareness about the importance of rainforests and mobilizes efforts to protect them. In the US, the occasion is marked with community tree plantings, school projects, and social media campaigns that highlight conservation successes. Many botanical gardens host special exhibits, while environmental groups run fundraising challenges to support on-the-ground protection efforts.


date: 2025-06-23
filename: DresdenElbe_EN-US2259441179.jpg
title: From ruins to resilience
copyright: The Elbe in Dresden, Germany (© Sean Pavone/Getty Images)
story:
Berlin gets the buzz, Munich brings the beer, but what about Dresden, in eastern Germany? Dresden brings the story. The city, once called 'the Florence on the Elbe,' was nearly wiped off the map in 1945 during World War II. Since then, it has rebuilt itself into a place where modern museums, Baroque buildings, and riverside views share the same frame. Much of the city's oldest architecture can be found in the boroughs of Altstadt (Old Town) and Neustadt (New Town).


date: 2025-06-24
filename: DelicateArch_EN-US2369284902.jpg
title: Nature took its time
copyright: Delicate Arch, Arches National Park, Utah (© mmac72/Getty Images)
story:
This place wasn't built overnight—nature took its time to craft this masterpiece. What you see at Arches National Park, Utah, is the result of over 300 million years of erosion, uplift, and weathering. These arches were formed when salt beds were left behind by ancient seas. Over time, layers of sandstone cracked, shifted, and slowly wore away, revealing more than 2,000 natural arches. These formations are made mostly of Entrada and Navajo sandstone. The park was recognized as a national monument in 1929 and was later upgraded to national park status in 1971.


date: 2025-06-25
filename: GlastonburyScenic_EN-US2433998806.jpg
title: Tor and tunes: Glastonbury begins
copyright:
St. Michael's Church Tower on Glastonbury Tor, Glastonbury, Somerset, England (© Gavin Hellier/Getty Images)

story:
As the sun rises over the hills in Somerset, Glastonbury Festival comes alive, transforming a quiet part of South West England into one of the world's most famous music destinations. Since its humble beginnings in 1970, when tickets cost just one British pound, Glastonbury has grown into a cultural powerhouse, attracting over 200,000 fans each year. The festival is deeply rooted in the ideals of the hippie movement, the 1960s counterculture, and the free festival spirit that sparked its early days. From David Bowie and Elton John to Metallica and Billie Eilish, Glastonbury's stages have hosted performances that have defined generations. This year's festival runs from today through June 29, with The 1975, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo topping the bill. Overlooking the event is Glastonbury Tor, pictured here, a hill crowned by the 14th-century St. Michael's Church Tower. The Tor is steeped in myth and legend, from ties to King Arthur's Avalon to ancient spiritual lore.


date: 2025-06-26
filename: HorseheadRock_EN-US2494437641.jpg
title: Horsing around the coastline
copyright: The Milky Way over Horse Head Rock, New South Wales, Australia (© Philip Thurston/Getty Images)
story:
You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink—unless, of course, you're talking about Horse Head Rock, perched off the Sapphire Coast near Bermagui in New South Wales, Australia. This ancient formation, pictured here, seems as if nature itself has sculpted a mythical creature forever poised to drink from the sea. Estimated to be 500 million years old, the rock's uncanny resemblance to a horse bending its neck is the result of wind and wave erosion. As one of the region's oldest and most iconic landmarks, it attracts hikers, photographers, and nature lovers year-round. The best views are from the elevated track between Camel Rock and Murunna Point, while the more daring can scramble around from Camel Rock Surf Beach, though only safely at low tide.


date: 2025-06-27
filename: SplendidFrog_EN-US9346105347.jpg
title: A splendid creature
copyright: Splendid leaf frog (© Jan Stria/Shutterstock)
story:
Don't let the name fool you—this frog isn't just leafing around. The splendid leaf frog (aka splendid tree frog) is a rainforest resident with a flair for the dramatic: neon legs, sticky feet, and a disappearing act. One minute it's a humble green leaf, the next it's a flash of color mid-leap, startling predators. This frog lives high in the canopies of Central and South America, especially in Costa Rica, Panama, and parts of Ecuador and Colombia. It spends its days snoozing on leaves and its nights foraging for insects. With vertical pupils and a golden glow, oversized eyes help this frog spot prey in the dark. Thanks to sticky toe pads and strong limbs, it can cling to branches and leaves like a pro, even in the canopy's slippery heights.


date: 2025-06-28
filename: PrideParade_EN-US9405333794.jpg
title: Flying the flag for Pride
copyright: Rainbow flags at New York Pride (© Alan Schein/Getty Images)
story:
In the early hours of June 28, 1969, a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York's Greenwich Village met unexpected resistance. Fed up with years of harassment, LGBTQIA+ patrons fought back. What followed was six days of unrest—and the start of a movement. Led in part by trans activists like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, the uprising challenged not only police brutality but society's silence. Stonewall wasn't the beginning of queer existence, but it was the moment people said 'no more' loud enough to be heard worldwide. The first Pride marches came the next year, not as parties, but as protests. Thousands marched in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago to mark the anniversary of Stonewall. Holding signs and chanting for liberation, they demanded visibility, rights, and justice.


date: 2025-06-29
filename: BandaIsland_EN-US9494080788.jpg
title: Where history gets spicy
copyright: Blue lagoon at Pulau Ay, Banda Islands, Indonesia (© fabio lamanna/Alamy)
story:
Every June 29, the International Day of the Tropics shines a light on the equator-hugging zone where the sun sticks around, and climate conversations get real. The tropics span a broad region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, including parts of Asia, Africa, Oceania, Central America, and South America. Nearly 40% of the global population lives in this band, which also hosts 80% of the world's biodiversity. It's rich in culture, nature, and history—but also under pressure from rising temperatures, deforestation, and fast-paced urban growth.


date: 2025-06-30
filename: WolfeCrater_EN-US2390330059.jpg
title: Rock-solid defense
copyright: Wolfe Creek Crater, Australia (© Abstract Aerial Art/Getty Images)
story:
Each scar on Earth from a meteorite impact tells a story—from the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs to the lesser-known craters that dot the planet. Asteroid Day highlights ongoing research into asteroids and the potential threats they pose. Started in 2015 and backed by the United Nations, this day marks the anniversary of the Tunguska event—a massive explosion that occurred in Siberia on June 30, 1908. This explosion flattened over 800 square miles of Siberian forest near the Tunguska River. The blast released energy equal to 10–15 megatons of TNT, a standard measure of explosive force. Since then, craters like Arizona's Barringer, Quebec's Manicouagan, and others have helped scientists study what happens when space rocks hit Earth.


date: 2025-07-01
filename: CanadaDayFogo_EN-US0231478181.jpg
title: Canada turns 158
copyright:
Fishing village of Tilting, Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (© FedevPhoto/Getty Images)

story:
Today, Canada turns another year older. Canada Day is a nod to the moment when the country officially came together in 1867. What began as a confederation of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia has grown into a nation of 10 provinces and 3 territories. Originally called Dominion Day, the name was changed to Canada Day in 1982—the same year the Constitution Act was signed, granting the country full control over its constitution. While Canada Day is not the country's 'Independence Day,' it's the closest thing to it. Canadians celebrate this holiday with fireworks, parades, concerts, and community events. Ottawa, the country's capital, hosts one of the biggest celebrations, featuring music and speeches on Parliament Hill.


date: 2025-07-02
filename: MaroonClownfish_EN-US0391262783.jpg
title: In the bubble-tip zone
copyright:
Spine-cheeked anemonefish surrounded by bubble-tip anemone, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea (© Fred Bavendam/Nature Picture Library)

story:
That bright fish hiding in the anemone? That's the spine-cheeked anemonefish, or the maroon clownfish, and it is not just a cute creature. Native to the Indo-Pacific, from western Indonesia to Taiwan and the Great Barrier Reef, this species lives on the edges of coral reefs. It is easily distinguished by the spine extending from each cheek—hence the name. Groups of spine-cheeked anemonefish form around a single dominant female, and if she disappears, the top male steps up—literally changing sex to take her place. Spine-cheeked anemonefish thrive in warm, shallow waters and stick close to their chosen sea anemone.


date: 2025-07-03
filename: RainbowRiver_EN-US0442967532.jpg
title: The clear embrace of Rainbow River
copyright: Rainbow River in Rainbow Springs State Park, Florida (© Michel Roggo/Minden Pictures)
story:
Nestled in the northern Gulf Coast of Florida, is Rainbow Springs State Park. This area has served as a natural resource for humans and animals for centuries, with the Rainbow River—flowing through the park—playing a major role. The gently winding waterway is fed by Rainbow Springs, one of Florida's largest springs. The water that bubbles up here comes from a 770-square-mile area and eventually flows into the Withlacoochee River.


date: 2025-07-04
filename: SeattleFireworks_EN-US0523563675.jpg
title: Sparks over Seattle
copyright: Fourth of July fireworks over Lake Union in Seattle (© Dixin Yan)
story:
Every year on July 4, Americans come together to celebrate the birth of our nation. It marks the day in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was adopted, proclaiming the original 13 colonies' freedom from British rule. From coast to coast, we celebrate with fireworks, BBQs, parades, and patriotic music—and Seattle hosts one of the most dazzling displays in the country.


date: 2025-07-05
filename: TourCyclists_EN-US0589835009.jpg
title: Pedaling through history
copyright:
Descending the Col du Tourmalet in the French Pyrenees during the 2021 Tour de France (© THOMAS SAMSON/AFP via Getty Images)

story:
Every summer, the world's best cyclists take on one of the most grueling athletic events in modern sports—the Tour de France. Beginning this year on July 5, the 2025 race will span 21 stages and over 2,000 miles across France. First held in 1903 to boost newspaper sales, the Tour has grown into cycling's most iconic race. Riders compete in mountain climbs, sprints, and time trials, with the race traditionally ending in Paris.


date: 2025-07-06
filename: MesquiteFlats_EN-US0638943216.jpg
title: Sands of time
copyright:
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park, California (© Bryan Jolley/TANDEM Stills + Motion)

story:
The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, located near Stovepipe Wells Village in Death Valley National Park, are the most accessible and iconic dunes in the park. They are formed by a combination of eroding mountains to the north that supply sand, prevailing winds that move it, and surrounding mountains that trap it from the south—creating a stunning landscape of rippling sand hills. Named after the resilient mesquite trees that grow here, the dunes offer breathtaking views at sunrise and sunset, as well as exceptional stargazing opportunities.


date: 2025-07-07
filename: ShetlandGannets_EN-US0812287314.jpg
title: Flash, splash, then snack
copyright: Northern gannets diving for fish, Shetland Islands, Scotland (© Richard Shucksmith/Minden Pictures)
story:
Graceful, powerful, and impossible to miss—the northern gannet is the largest seabird on the waters of the North Atlantic. It spends most of its time gliding over open seas and returning to land only to breed. These seabirds, known for their vast and noisy breeding colonies, called gannetries, nest on steep cliffs, remote rocky islands, and sea stacks that rise from the ocean.


date: 2025-07-08
filename: SecedaPeak_EN-US0983713623.jpg
title: Beauty with an edge
copyright: Seceda, a peak in the Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy (© Kalyakan/Adobe Stock)
story:
Italy's Dolomites don't just tower; they enchant, turning every trail into a story. Fondly known as the 'Pale Mountains,' the Dolomites derive their name from dolomite—a carbonate mineral. Set in the northern Italian Alps, the range spans over 345,000 acres and boasts 18 soaring peaks that rise above 9,500 feet. These mountains feature sheer cliffs, lofty walls, and a maze of narrow, winding valleys.


date: 2025-07-09
filename: ConstitucionStation_EN-US1235857389.jpg
title: The rise of a republic
copyright: Constitución railway station, Buenos Aires, Argentina (© Grafissimo/Getty Images)
story:
Argentina, a nation of sweeping pampas, rich culture, and a bold identity, celebrates its Independence Day today. This pivotal date marks the moment in 1816 when delegates from across the region gathered in the city of San Miguel de Tucumán to declare freedom from Spanish colonial rule. The road to independence was not easy; it followed years of internal struggles and revolutions influenced by global movements, including the American and French revolutions. But the resolve of the Argentine people prevailed.


date: 2025-07-10
filename: BahamaBlues_EN-US1367794856.jpg
title: To the waves of freedom
copyright: Turquoise waters of the Bahamas (© BlueOrange Studio/Adobe Stock)
story:
The Bahamas comes alive with color, music, and pride today as the nation marks its Independence Day. First recorded by Europeans in 1492 when Christopher Columbus arrived, the islands were initially under Spanish rule. They later came briefly under American control before becoming a British colony. After decades of legal negotiations and a growing push for self-governance, the Bahamas transitioned to full independence on this day in 1973.


date: 2025-07-11
filename: TokyoSunrise_EN-US4269783992.jpg
title: Counting us all in
copyright: Tokyo at sunrise (© pongnathee kluaythong/Getty Images)
story:
We are living in a full house, and it is getting fuller. With 8.2 billion people and counting, World Population Day highlights how that growth affects cities, food, and the future. First observed in 1989, the day focuses on how unchecked population growth affects sustainability. The event was inspired by Five Billion Day in 1987, which marked the approximate date when the global population hit that milestone. As cities expand, green spaces shrink, and agriculture competes for limited land and water resources. But there is a way forward—investing in education, improving access to healthcare, and building smarter cities can balance growth with sustainability.


date: 2025-07-12
filename: ThomsonGazelle_EN-US4354285846.jpg
title: Following mom's lead
copyright: Thomson's gazelle mother and fawn, Maasai Mara, Kenya (© Gallo Images/DanitaDelimont.com)
story:
There's something about the way animals move through the grasslands of the Maasai Mara, bathed in golden rays, that makes you pause and simply watch. This stretch of savanna in southwestern Kenya teems with wildlife—from elephants stomping through bushes to cheetahs scanning the horizon. Yet sometimes it's the smaller creatures that grab attention—like the Thomson's gazelles featured in today's image.


date: 2025-07-13
filename: BasaltColumns_EN-US4476950150.jpg
title: Rockin' those layers
copyright: Basalt columns at Kálfshamarsvík, Skagi Peninsula, Iceland (© Arterra Picture Library/Alamy)
story:
Do you think rocks are just … well, rocks? These natural mineral combinations have done more than just sit around—they've built the Earth's crust and helped humans shape history. From Stone Age tools to the minerals powering modern civilization, rocks have been essential throughout our journey. International Rock Day celebrates this enduring impact, inviting us to explore the science of rocks, admire their natural beauty, and recognize the rich variety they add to our world.


date: 2025-07-14
filename: YoungShark_EN-US4689572794.jpg
title: Chasing waves
copyright: Young blue shark swimming off the coast of Galicia, Spain (© Damocean/Getty Images)
story:
Sharks have been around for over 400 million years—outlasting dinosaurs, surviving ice ages, and weathering mass extinctions. They are symbols of ocean health, which is why Shark Awareness Day draws attention to these apex predators that help maintain balance in marine ecosystems. Protecting sharks means preserving the health of entire ocean environments—and ultimately, securing a sustainable future for all life. With many shark species facing the threat of extinction, this day is all about appreciating their ancient legacy and learning how we can help keep them off the endangered list.


date: 2025-07-15
filename: PerseidsPine_EN-US4826682211.jpg
title: Timeless glow
copyright:
Perseid meteor shower and an ancient bristlecone pine, Great Basin National Park, Nevada (© Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock)

story:
Get ready for one of the most dazzling celestial displays of the year—the Perseid meteor shower. Active from mid-July through late August, this year it reaches its spectacular peak on the night of August 12 and into the early hours of August 13. The Perseids light up the skies when Earth passes through a trail of icy and rocky debris left behind by Comet Swift–Tuttle, which last passed close to our planet in 1992. These meteors are called the Perseids because they appear to streak from the direction of the constellation Perseus.


date: 2025-07-16
filename: TemplePhilae_EN-US5062419351.jpg
title: Illuminated by Isis
copyright: Temple of Philae (aka Temple of Isis), Aswan, Egypt (© Ratnakorn Piyasirisorost/Getty Images)
story:
The Temple of Philae, often called the Temple of Isis, is one of Egypt's most enchanting ancient sites. Originally built on Philae Island, it was moved to nearby Agilkia Island to save it from flooding. The international rescue effort, launched by UNESCO in the 1960s, required a monumental effort that involved moving more than 40,000 stones. Today, it's a peaceful spot surrounded by the Nile—perfect for a scenic boat ride and a journey into the past.


date: 2025-07-17
filename: FranceLavender_EN-US5224253118.jpg
title: Fragrant horizons
copyright: Lavender fields in Plateau de Valensole, France (© zpagistock/Getty Images)
story:
If you're looking for a scent-sational summer trip, follow your nose to the Plateau de Valensole in Provence, France. From late June to mid-July, this high plateau transforms into a purple sea of lavender. Situated more than 1,900 feet above sea level and spanning approximately 300 square miles, it is one of the largest areas in France dedicated to lavender cultivation.


date: 2025-07-18
filename: FloridaSeashore_EN-US9038929616.jpg
title: Gulf Islands glow
copyright: Beach at sunrise, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida (© Tim Fitzharris/Minden Pictures)
story:
Gulf Islands National Seashore spans the northern Gulf of Mexico along the coasts of Florida and Mississippi, offering recreational activities and preserving natural and historic sites. Established in 1971, it boasts miles of white sand beaches, historic fortifications, and rich wildlife habitats. The seashore includes a 4,080-acre wilderness area on Mississippi's Petit Bois and Horn Islands, protecting their unique ecosystems. Besides being a perfect spot for snorkeling, hiking, and swimming, the seashore is home to a wide range of wildlife including armadillos, dolphins, pelicans, and sea turtles.


date: 2025-07-19
filename: MothWeek_EN-US5360572836.jpg
title: Moth-ers day
copyright:
Luna moth resting on cedar elm, New Braunfels, Texas, USA (© Rolf Nussbaumer/Nature Picture Library)

story:
Every July, nature enthusiasts gather for National Moth Week to celebrate the beauty and diversity of moths. Featured in today's image is the luna moth, a species whose charm rivals that of butterflies. Also known as the American moon moth, this striking insect—with its lime-green wings and white body—can be found across North America. Its caterpillars are also green and known for their impressive size, as well as their ability to emit clicking sounds and regurgitate intestinal contents as a defense mechanism against predators.


date: 2025-07-20
filename: BigMoon_EN-US5436003142.jpg
title: Dancing in the moonlight
copyright: The moon's surface photographed through a telescope (© Sergey Kuznetsov/Getty Images)
story:
Every July 20, we celebrate National Moon Day, marking the historic moment when Neil Armstrong first stepped onto the moon in 1969. Uttering the iconic words, 'That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,' Armstrong became the first human to walk on the moon, followed by Buzz Aldrin.


date: 2025-07-21
filename: AcroporaReef_EN-US5567789372.jpg
title: Rainforests of the sea
copyright: Staghorn coral off the island of Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands (© blue-sea.cz/Shutterstock)
story:
Every third week of July, Coral Reef Awareness Week reminds us that beneath the ocean's surface lies a world as rich and complex as any rainforest. Coral reefs—like the staghorn coral pictured here off the coast of Bonaire in the Caribbean Netherlands—are home to roughly 25% of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the seafloor. These ecosystems not only support ocean biodiversity but also protect coastlines and drive economies through tourism and fishing.


date: 2025-07-22
filename: BadlandsSunset_EN-US5821746223.jpg
title: Epic sunsets and ancient secrets
copyright: Sunset over Badlands National Park, South Dakota (© Petr Bednarik/Danita Delimont/Alamy)
story:
As the sun sets over Badlands National Park, the landscape transforms into a stunning display of color. The national park, located in southwestern South Dakota, features a dramatic terrain of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires carved by millennia of wind and water. Spanning over 379 square miles, the park is divided into three main units: the North Unit, home to the visitor center and scenic Badlands Loop Road; and the Stronghold and Palmer Creek units. The park's dramatic terrain is the result of sedimentary rock layers eroding at a rate of about one inch per year, revealing colorful bands of volcanic ash, silt, and clay. These formations are not only visually striking but also rich in fossils, including remains from the Oligocene Epoch (about 33.9 to 23 million years ago), such as ancient horses, camels, and saber-toothed cats.


date: 2025-07-23
filename: VaticanCity_EN-US5915643866.jpg
title: A country within a city
copyright: Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica (© RudyBalasko/Getty Images)
story:
In the middle of Rome, Italy, lies an entire country of its own: Vatican City. At just 121 acres, it's the smallest independent nation in the world, yet its reach spans centuries and continents. Home to the pope and the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church, this walled enclave is a blend of art, history, and devotion. At its core stands St. Peter's Basilica. Seen in the distance in today's image, this Renaissance masterpiece is built over what is believed to be the tomb of St. Peter, the first bishop of Rome. With its soaring dome dominating the skyline, the basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. Just beyond the basilica lies St. Peter's Square, where thousands gather for papal blessings. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, which houses Michelangelo's famed ceiling, are other must-sees. Despite its size, Vatican City has its own postal service, telephone system, and banking system.


date: 2025-07-24
filename: AshyWoodswallow_EN-US7005770998.jpg
title: Sticking together
copyright: Family of ashy woodswallows perched on a branch in Thailand (© Captain Skyhigh/Getty Images)
story:
Remember the cousin who convinced you to climb the tallest tree or the one who helped you sneak an extra slice of cake at the family reunion? Today is a good time to appreciate those childhood partners in crime who made growing up way more exciting. Cousins often land somewhere between sibling and friend, getting into trouble with you, sharing inside jokes, and showing up at every family gathering. In nature, few creatures mirror that kind of togetherness better than the ashy woodswallow, pictured here. Native to South Asia, these birds are rarely seen alone. They gather in tight groups on bare branches or perch atop high places like powerlines. From there, they launch into graceful flights—flapping and gliding as they snatch insects midair.


date: 2025-07-25
filename: LasPalmas_EN-US0568727017.jpg
title: Canvas of life
copyright: Aerial view of colorful houses, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain (© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images)
story:
If you're eager to explore faraway landscapes this summer, let us take you to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This vibrant city is one of the capitals and the most populous city in the Canary Islands, an archipelago belonging to Spain. Located on the northeastern coast of the island of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas is home to over 380,000 people and serves as a major port and commercial hub in the Atlantic. The city's distinctive palette of painted buildings—seen here from above—adds striking color to neighborhoods like Risco de San Juan, where homes are built into the hillsides. Founded in 1478, Las Palmas has a layered history shaped by Spanish colonization, maritime trade, and migration. Today, it is known for its subtropical desert climate—with average temperatures ranging from 60°F in winter to 80°F in summer—and for Las Canteras Beach, one of the best urban beaches in Europe.


date: 2025-07-26
filename: MangroveTwilight_EN-US0646432423.jpg
title: Sentinels of the tide
copyright:
Mangrove trees at twilight, Walakiri Beach, island of Sumba, Indonesia (© Boonchet Ch./Getty Images)

story:
As twilight descends on Walakiri Beach on the island of Sumba, Indonesia, the silhouettes of mangrove trees stand like sentinels in the tide—graceful, resilient, and vital. Today, on International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, we honor these extraordinary trees and the critical role they play in sustaining life on our planet.


date: 2025-07-27
filename: BlackfinBarracuda_EN-US1227116811.jpg
title: Shimmer in sync
copyright:
School of blackfin barracuda, Shark Reef, Ras Mohammed National Park, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt (© Alex Mustard/Nature Picture Library)

story:
Being surrounded by a shimmering spiral of silver—that's what it feels like to encounter a school of blackfin barracuda at Shark Reef in Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt. These streamlined fish, marked by sharp V-shaped stripes, move in near-perfect unison. Their slow, deliberate spirals aren't random—they're an evolutionary strategy that offers both safety in numbers and an edge in hunting. Blackfin barracudas are found throughout tropical waters, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. During the day, they gather in tight, coordinated groups near the reef, scattering at dusk to pursue prey.


date: 2025-07-28
filename: MongoliaYurts_EN-US1803457525.jpg
title: A steppe ahead
copyright: Yurts in the grasslands of Mongolia (© Michel Arnault/Shutterstock)
story:
Every July 28, World Nature Conservation Day reminds us that protecting nature isn't optional—it's essential. Mongolia's vast grasslands, featured today, are a powerful example. These ecosystems are among the largest intact temperate grasslands on Earth, stretching across millions of acres of open steppe. They support around 200,000 nomadic herder families and provide habitat for rare species like the Mongolian gazelle and snow leopard.


date: 2025-07-29
filename: TigerDay_EN-US5038876410.jpg
title: The jungle queen
copyright: Female Bengal tiger, Kanha National Park, India (© Axel Gomille/Nature Picture Library)
story:
Think you can hear silence? Try sitting in a jeep in Kanha National Park in the heart of India, waiting for a Bengal tiger to appear. Every year, International Tiger Day draws attention to these powerful yet endangered big cats. Bengal tigers are more than their unmistakable orange coats and black stripes. They are apex predators, essential to the health and balance of the ecosystems they inhabit. By keeping prey populations like deer and wild boar in check, tigers help shape vegetation patterns and support the overall biodiversity of their environments.


date: 2025-07-30
filename: SaypeDubai_EN-US5078679271.jpg
title: Friendship without borders
copyright:
'Beyond Walls' land-art installation by Saype at Expo 2020 Dubai, United Arab Emirates (© VALENTIN FLAURAUD/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

story:
What do giant handshakes painted on the ground have to do with friendship? Quite a lot, actually. Celebrated every July 30, the International Day of Friendship reminds us that tackling global challenges, like poverty, violence, and injustice, starts with something surprisingly simple: human connection. That's exactly what artist Saype had in mind with 'Beyond Walls,' a series of massive, biodegradable land-art murals featuring interlinked hands. Symbolizing unity and solidarity, these works have stretched across five continents. At Expo 2020 Dubai, Saype's 11th installation covered over 16,000 square feet of grass in Al Forsan Park. It formed a striking black-and-white handshake that could only be fully appreciated from above, as seen here. The piece, made with eco-friendly paint, was unveiled on Switzerland's National Day, supported by the Swiss Pavilion.


date: 2025-07-31
filename: BabyLemur_EN-US9264861498.jpg
title: Madagascar native
copyright:
Ring-tailed lemur infant playing with its own tail, Madagascar (© Andy Rouse/Nature Picture Library)

story:
It looks like this small creature is playing a game, right? But when a baby ring-tailed lemur wraps its tail around or gives it a tug, it's actually working on crucial skills. The infants spend their early weeks hanging tight to their mom, first clinging to her belly, and later to her back. As they grow, they separate from their mom, and tail-chasing becomes part of how they learn balance, coordination, and group play. These primates use their long tails for communication as well. Raised like flags during group movement, the tails help them stick together in open terrain. Loud, rhythmic calls, scent markings, and 'stink fights' between males add to the social drama.


date: 2025-08-01
filename: EdinburghFringe_EN-US5923216873.jpg
title: Expect the unexpected
copyright: Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland (© MEDITERRANEAN/Getty Images)
story:
Every August, Edinburgh stops being just a city and starts acting up—literally. From pub basements to park benches, stages appear in the strangest places, and shows pop up on quiet streets. Welcome to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, or the Fringe. The story began in 1947, when eight theater groups turned up uninvited to the Edinburgh International Festival. They performed anyway. That spirit of rebellion stuck, and the Fringe was born.


date: 2025-08-02
filename: FruitaPetroglyphs_EN-US8712481828.jpg
title: Age-old storyboard
copyright: Petroglyphs near Fruita in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah (© Nicolas VINCENT/Adobe Stock)
story:
There's something timeless about Capitol Reef National Park—a place where red rock cliffs, winding canyons, and ancient stories come together under Utah's desert sky. Designated a national park in 1971, Capitol Reef invites reflection—not just on its vivid geology, but on the ancient narratives and cultural heritage etched into its landscape.


date: 2025-08-03
filename: HappySunflower_EN-US8791544241.jpg
title: Hello yellow!
copyright: Sunflowers in a field in summer (© Arsgera/Shutterstock)
story:
Bright and bold, sunflowers are loved by bees, birds, and just about everyone. The name of their genus, helianthus, comes from the Greek words for sun (helios) and flower (anthos). These annual plants are known for their large, daisy-like flowers and radiant charm. While sunflowers come in shades of red, orange, and maroon, it's the classic yellow blooms with brown centers that are the most common.


date: 2025-08-04
filename: LaplandOwl_EN-US8965493818.jpg
title: Whooo's home?
copyright: Great gray owls in their nest, Finland (© imageBROKER.com/Alamy)
story:
Silent hunters of the night sky, owls are among the most intriguing creatures in the animal kingdom. Their ability to turn their heads up to 270 degrees—combined with silent flight and exceptional night vision—showcases their remarkable adaptations. With over 200 species found across the globe, these birds contribute to ecological balance and are deeply woven into cultural traditions. Celebrated annually on August 4, International Owl Awareness Day not only honors their presence in nature but also raises awareness about the threats they face.


date: 2025-08-05
filename: CaliforniaTidepool_EN-US9089576317.jpg
title: Tide and seek
copyright: Tide pools in La Jolla, California (© Andrew Shoemaker/DanitaDelimont.com)
story:
Not every science lesson requires a classroom. In La Jolla, California, tide pools teach you about ocean life—right at your feet. Along the rocky shoreline of this San Diego coastal neighborhood, tide pools form during low tide as seawater gets trapped in natural depressions. These shallow pools form naturally along La Jolla's rocky shorelines, especially near Windansea Beach, Shell Beach, South Casa Beach, and Hospital Point. The water that remains trapped in sandstone and reef depressions creates habitats for everything from sea hares to brittle stars. Over time, the tide pools are created through the process of erosion—waves hit the sandstone and limestone coastlines until they carve out pockets that hold water. Twice a day, as the tide moves in and out, these spaces flood and drain, challenging the survival skills of everything inside. Winter months, when tides are lowest during daylight hours, are ideal for observing them.


date: 2025-08-06
filename: NaPaliKauai_EN-US7451684312.jpg
title: Off the grid
copyright: Kalalau Beach on the Nā Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii (© Russ Bishop/DanitaDelimont.com)
story:
No road signs, no souvenir stands—just 11 miles of mud, cliffs, and sweeping views leading to one of Hawaii's most remote beaches. Kalalau Beach, at the end of Kauai's Kalalau Trail, is where tired feet meet a sandy reward. The only land access is the trail itself, a rugged trek through valleys and along coastal cliffs. During summer, some arrive by kayak, but all visitors need permits to stay.


date: 2025-08-07
filename: GasparillaLight_EN-US0554204214.jpg
title: Code of the coastline
copyright: Gasparilla Island Rear Range Light, Boca Grande, Florida (© Wiltser/Getty Images)
story:
Before GPS told ships where to go, lighthouses lit the way—each with its own flash pattern so sailors could figure out where they were, even in total darkness. It's National Lighthouse Day, a perfect excuse to give these coastal workhorses some credit. In 1789, Congress passed a law to make sure all lighthouses were taken care of by the federal government. Whether you're a history buff, coastal explorer, or just into old engineering, today is a great day to learn more about lighthouses or visit one with your friends and family.


date: 2025-08-08
filename: IguazuArgentina_EN-US5953375078.jpg
title: All for falls and falls for all
copyright: Three Musketeers Falls at Iguazú Falls, Argentina (© Mark Meredith/Getty Images)
story:
No voice is loud enough to drown out the roar of Iguazú Falls. But it's not just the sound. The sheer presence of this natural wonder is overwhelming as it straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil. This vast waterfall system stretches nearly 2 miles and features more than 270 individual cascades, each offering a unique display of tumbling water and shimmering mist.


date: 2025-08-09
filename: MaoriRock_EN-US6499689741.jpg
title: Honoring Indigenous voices
copyright: Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō, New Zealand (© Joppi/Getty Images)
story:
Each year on August 9, the United Nations observes the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples—a moment to recognize the resilience, wisdom, and cultural richness of Indigenous communities around the globe. In the US, this day invites reflection on the histories and contributions of Native American nations, while also encouraging solidarity with Indigenous peoples worldwide.


date: 2025-08-10
filename: LionessKenya_EN-US8440386444.jpg
title: Roar for a cause
copyright: Lioness in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya (© Tandem Stock/Adobe Stock)
story:
With a roar that echoes across the plains, lions have long captured the human imagination. On August 10, World Lion Day invites us to celebrate these iconic big cats while raising awareness about their declining numbers and the urgent need for conservation.


date: 2025-08-11
filename: SantaMaddalena_EN-US8546897995.jpg
title: Postcard from the peaks
copyright: Village of Santa Maddalena, Dolomites, Italy (© Sakrapee Nopparat/Getty Images)
story:
Tucked into the northern Italian Alps, the village of Santa Maddalena is a postcard-perfect hamlet in South Tyrol's valley of Val di Funes. With its iconic church steeple set against the jagged peaks of the Dolomites—a mountain range in the Alps—it's one of the most photographed spots in the region. The Dolomites themselves—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—rise dramatically behind the village, their pale limestone faces glowing pink at sunset in a phenomenon locals call 'enrosadira.'


date: 2025-08-12
filename: KenyaElephants_EN-US8723347309.jpg
title: Wild, wise, and wonderful
copyright: African elephant herd, Amboseli National Park, Kenya (© Chase Dekker/Minden Pictures)
story:
Big ears, bigger hearts—elephants are more than just icons of the wild. Every year on August 12, we celebrate World Elephant Day—a global movement to raise awareness about the majestic giants that roam places like Amboseli National Park in Kenya, pictured here. What makes elephants so extraordinary isn't just their size; it's their minds. These animals have incredible memories. Matriarchs, the oldest females, can recall the locations of water sources from decades past, and they use that knowledge to lead their herds through tough times. Their social bonds run just as deep. Elephants live in close-knit families, mourn their dead, and have even been observed comforting one another during hard times.


date: 2025-08-13
filename: CoronaArch_EN-US8928406175.jpg
title: Earth's open secret
copyright: A man rappels off Corona Arch near Moab, Utah (© Grant Ordelheide/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Just outside Arches National Park in Utah lies a natural wonder that rises like a colossal doorway against the sky, drawing photographers, nature lovers, and hikers. Welcome to Corona Arch, seen in today's image, a towering Navajo sandstone formation that offers big adventure without the big crowds. The Corona Arch Trail starts off easy but packs a punch of scenery: railroad tracks, slickrock scrambles, and even a metal cable assist make it more than just a walk in the desert. After 1.5 miles of walking, the payoff is big: a massive arch that's 140 feet wide and 105 feet high. It's so large that people once swung from it on ropes, until that was banned for safety reasons. Even without the adrenaline stunts, the hike offers beautiful views and unforgettable moments in the heart of Red Rock Country. Also known as Little Rainbow Bridge, it shares visual similarities with the iconic Rainbow Bridge arch near Lake Powell—but Corona Arch holds its own in a more peaceful setting.


date: 2025-08-14
filename: PizNairPeak_EN-US9097547756.jpg
title: Taking it from the top
copyright: Cable car station on Piz Nair mountain, Graubünden, Switzerland (© Roberto Moiola/Alamy)
story:
There's a mountain in Switzerland that's always looking down on you—but don't take it personally. At 10,026 feet, Piz Nair of the Albula Alps keeps an eye over the Engadine valley in Graubünden. Start in St. Moritz: hop on the funicular (a type of cable railway system) to Corviglia, then ride the cable car to the summit. At the top? A viewing platform and that famous ibex (an alpine goat) statue. There's also a restaurant where you can eat inside a glass cube with 360° views.


date: 2025-08-15
filename: SpottedEagleRay_EN-US9227600044.jpg
title: Winging it underwater
copyright: Spotted eagle rays, San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador (© Tui De Roy/Minden Pictures)
story:
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's … a fish! Gliding through the ocean with flapping fins and polka-dot flair, the spotted eagle ray refuses to blend in. It doesn't crawl along the seabed like its stingray cousins—it flies underwater. The species gets its name from—you guessed it—its protruding snout, which resembles an eagle's beak, and its distinctive spotted back, which is unique to each individual, much like fingerprints. Their wing-like pectoral fins can span up to 10 feet. Near the base of the long tail are venomous spines, in case a predator gets too close. These rays aren't aggressive, but they're not defenseless either.


date: 2025-08-16
filename: ColorfulBeehives_EN-US1476944743.jpg
title: Bee the change
copyright: Colorful beehives in Italy (© Roberto Caucino/Shutterstock)
story:
If you think bees are just out for a sting, think again. These tiny winged workers are running the world's sweetest gig—and they've got a whole day dedicated to their buzz-ness. Welcome to World Honey Bee Day, celebrated every third Saturday in August. About 35% of global food crop production relies on animal pollination, including honey bees. The value of crops pollinated by bees is estimated at hundreds of billions of dollars. Despite their superpowers, bees are in a sticky situation. Habitat loss, pesticides, disease, and climate change are making life in the hive less than ideal.


date: 2025-08-17
filename: LyngvigLighthouse_EN-US1600601632.jpg
title: One tall way to spot the sea
copyright: Lyngvig Lighthouse, Hvide Sande, Denmark (© Caroline Brundle Bugge/Getty Images)
story:
Built to brave storms and steer ships to safety, lighthouses now glow as symbols of heritage, wonder, and connection. Each year on the third weekend of August, the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend brings together people from around the globe to celebrate these coastal icons. The event was launched in 1998 by John Forsyth and Mike Dalrymple of Scotland's Ayr Amateur Radio Group. It aims to raise awareness about preserving lighthouses and lightships while also promoting amateur radio and encouraging international goodwill.


date: 2025-08-18
filename: AvalancheLake_EN-US1814683119.jpg
title: Stream a little dream
copyright: Avalanche Lake Trail at Adirondack High Peaks, New York (© Posnov/Getty Images)
story:
There's no easing into the wild here—the Avalanche Lake Trail carves a bold path through rock scrambles, narrow ledges, and alpine serenity. Tucked away in New York's Adirondack High Peaks, this 9-acre alpine lake sits at nearly 2,900 feet between Mount Colden and Avalanche Mountain. Shaped by ancient glaciers, the lake is framed by dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain that echo its icy origins. Its most striking feature is the Trap Dike—a towering 1,200-foot rock canyon flanked by steep walls, making the lake one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Adirondacks. Massive avalanches carved these cliffs, leaving behind the dramatic landscape that gave Avalanche Lake its name. The Avalanche Lake Trail begins at the Adirondack Loj, a well-known launch point for adventures in the High Peaks. Spanning about 9.6 miles round trip with a 1,350-foot elevation gain, the hike may seem manageable on paper—but it's the uneven terrain that truly tests your mettle.


date: 2025-08-19
filename: SolarAviation_EN-US1940905760.jpg
title: Powered by the sun
copyright: Solar Impulse 2 at Kalaeloa Airport, Honolulu, Hawaii (© Solar Impulse/Revillard/Sipa/Shutterstock)
story:
Planes, progress, and a whole lot of sky. National Aviation Day gives us a reason to pause and appreciate how aviation has shaped the modern world—and the innovators who dared to dream of flight. The national day was established in 1939 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to honor Orville Wright's contributions to aviation. Wright, born on this day in 1871, achieved the first powered, controlled flight in 1903 along with his brother Wilbur. The day is recognized as an opportunity to promote the advancement of aviation through public events and educational activities. Many aviation museums offer free or discounted entry, and airfields often hold open houses to engage the community.


date: 2025-08-20
filename: CitadelBonifacio_EN-US2046177235.jpg
title: Built to last
copyright: The citadel in Bonifacio, Southern Corsica, France (© Marc Dozier/Getty Images)
story:
Set at Corsica's southern edge, Bonifacio looks out across a narrow strait to Sardinia, its limestone cliffs towering above the waves. Bonifacio didn't begin as a picturesque tourist destination—it was originally established as a coastal fortification and has spent centuries guarding one of the Mediterranean's busiest sea lanes. Established in 828 CE by Boniface II of Tuscany, the commune gradually became a meeting point for traders, soldiers, and sailors—each group contributing to the evolution of the town's structure. Bonifacio is divided into two sections, with the 'vieille ville' (old town)—also known as 'la Haute Ville' (the Upper City)—standing on a high cliff within the original citadel walls. Below, the marine area lines the narrow inlet with harbors, waterfront homes, and a growing valley community.


date: 2025-08-21
filename: WheatearBird_EN-US2132045619.jpg
title: Perched and poised
copyright:
Wheatear and flowering heather, Peak District National Park, England (© Ben Hall/Nature Picture Library)

story:
You don't need to be a bird expert to notice the wheatear darting across open ground. These ground-dwelling songbirds are known for their upright posture and habit of hopping or sprinting between perches. Despite the name, wheatears have nothing to do with wheat or ears—the name is a twist on the old phrase 'white arse,' pointing to the bird's distinctive white rump found in most species. The northern wheatear weighs less than an ounce, but travels thousands of miles between its summer homes in Alaska and northern Canada to its wintering grounds in Africa. Its migration route is one of the longest for a bird its size. Unlike many backyard songbirds, wheatears prefer wide-open spaces with low vegetation, where they can sprint and pounce on insects. And while most North American birders might only catch them in the far north, wheatears are widespread across Europe, Asia, and Africa.


date: 2025-08-22
filename: PalouseWA_EN-US2419102005.jpg
title: Nature's green quilt
copyright: Rolling hills of the Palouse, Washington (© svetlana57/Getty Images)
story:
Wave after wave of velvety hills stretch across the Palouse. This tranquil region lies in southeastern Washington, extending to the borders of Idaho and Oregon. The wheat-covered slopes shift in color with every passing season. In spring, the hills turn lush shades of green as young wheat and barley begin to grow, while summer transforms them into dry, golden browns as the crops near harvest.


date: 2025-08-23
filename: SaintBarbaras_EN-US3076115197.jpg
title: Gothic majesty
copyright: St. Barbara's Cathedral, Kutná Hora, Czechia (© Castka/Getty Images)
story:
Rising like a stone hymn in the heart of Kutná Hora, a town in Czechia, the Cathedral of St. Barbara is an example of medieval grandeur dedicated to the patron saint of miners—an enduring symbol for a community whose lifeblood was silver. The miners themselves played a key role in building the cathedral that still bears her name.


date: 2025-08-24
filename: CervusDama_EN-US3217647015.jpg
title: 'Fallow' us
copyright: European fallow deer, England (© Enrique Aguirre Aves/Getty Images)
story:
Flat antlers? Check. Spotted coat? Check. Side-eye from the bushes? Also check. Say hello to the European fallow deer. These medium-sized deer have been strutting through British woodlands and parklands for centuries. Though they look right at home, they weren't born here. The Romans likely brought them over, and the Normans later made them common in hunting parks. Now, they're regulars in landscapes from Sussex to Scotland.


date: 2025-08-25
filename: YellowstoneRiver_EN-US3380364726.jpg
title: From volcanic roots to river routes
copyright:
Calcite Springs Overlook and Yellowstone River, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (© Rebecca L. Latson/Getty Images)

story:
Today, the National Park Service celebrates another trip around the sun—and nearly 85 million acres of American beauty under its care. From geysers that spout like soda cans to ancient cliff dwellings tucked into canyon walls, the NPS has spent over a century preserving, protecting, and inviting people to take a hike—literally. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act into law, officially creating the NPS to 'conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects.' Since then, the NPS has grown to oversee more than 400 sites, including national parks, battlefields, monuments, and seashores.


date: 2025-08-26
filename: TrulliHouses_EN-US3489439665.jpg
title: A 'trulli' remarkable town
copyright: Trullo buildings in Alberobello, Apulia, Italy (© Feng Wei Photography/Getty Images)
story:
If fairy tales had architects, they might've come up with something like Alberobello in Italy. But instead of magic wands, it was limestone, mortar-free masonry, and—according to some theories—a bit of tax evasion that built this town's signature homes: the trulli. These are whitewashed stone houses topped with dry-stacked limestone roofs shaped like upside-down ice cream cones. It's an ancient building technique, and in this case, a clever one. Back in the 14th century, locals were reportedly trying to avoid property taxes by constructing homes that could be quickly dismantled when the king's tax collector came around.


date: 2025-08-27
filename: FaroeLake_EN-US3557234950.jpg
title: A lake above the ocean
copyright: Sørvágsvatn lake, island of Vágar, Faroe Islands, Denmark (© Anton Petrus/Getty Images)
story:
Nature has its tricks, and Sørvágsvatn is one of its best. World Lake Day is the perfect occasion to explore this optical illusion in the Faroe Islands, an autonomous administrative division of the Kingdom of Denmark. Also called Leitisvatn, this lake on the island of Vágar appears to float far above the ocean. In reality, it sits less than 100 feet above sea level. As the largest lake in the Faroes, Sørvágsvatn has a surface area of about 1.3 square miles and feeds the Bøsdalafossur waterfall, where its waters pour dramatically into the sea.


date: 2025-08-28
filename: WhiteEgret_EN-US3605994040.jpg
title: This egret has no regrets
copyright: Great white egret, Hungary (© Markus Varesvuo/Nature Picture Library)
story:
Snippet	They wear white after Labor Day—and all year long—with zero shame. Meet the great egret, also known as the great white egret. Found in the Americas, Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe, these birds are often seen wading through wetlands, tidal flats, and quiet streams. Patient and precise, they stand motionless for minutes, waiting for just the right moment to deliver a lightning-fast strike. Fish are their main prey, but they also eat frogs, reptiles, and even small mammals.


date: 2025-08-29
filename: PlazaMayor_EN-US3692727880.jpg
title: The heart of the grid
copyright: Aerial view of Plaza Mayor, Madrid, Spain (© AirPano LLC/Amazing Aerial Agency)
story:
Seen from above, the uniform arcades and tiled rooftops of Plaza Mayor in Madrid—the capital of Spain—create a captivating architectural harmony. Once the site of a bustling market square known as the Plaza del Arrabal, this historic space has witnessed the city's transformation over the centuries. The shift began in 1561, when the plaza came under Madrid's jurisdiction after the royal court moved from Toledo. Inspired by a vision of order and grandeur, King Philip II reimagined the square—though construction did not actually begin until 1617, under the reign of Philip III.


date: 2025-08-30
filename: MaldivesWhaleShark_EN-US3819740955.jpg
title: Finned and fabulous
copyright:
Whale shark off the coast of Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives (© Bachir Moukarzel/Amazing Aerial Agency)

story:
If you've never seen a nearly 40-foot, polka-dotted fish gliding past coral reefs, you are missing out. Today is International Whale Shark Day, a reminder that these slow-motion giants need our attention. First observed in 2008, the day is used by researchers and marine advocates to spotlight conservation efforts and threats like vessel strikes, plastic pollution, and unregulated tourism.


date: 2025-08-31
filename: ScottsBluff_EN-US3893566724.jpg
title: Painted clouds, still cliffs
copyright: Scotts Bluff National Monument in Gering, Nebraska (© Hawk Buckman/Getty Images)
story:
Long before GPS, natural landmarks like Scotts Bluff rose high above the prairie, signaling to travelers that they were on the right path heading west. Before Gering became a town in 1887 and decades before Nebraska achieved statehood in 1867, these sandstone and siltstone formations were already guiding thousands along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. Scotts Bluff National Monument is named after Hiram Scott, a fur trader with the Rocky Mountain Fur Company who died under mysterious circumstances nearby in the 1820s.


date: 2025-09-01
filename: LaborDayChicago_EN-US3947410593.jpg
title: Stitched into history
copyright:
Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America in a Labor Day parade, May 1915, Chicago (© Chicago Sun-Times/Chicago Daily News collection/Chicago History Museum/Getty Images)

story:
May 1915: Chicago buzzes with energy. Streetcars pass brick buildings, shop signs catch the morning light, and the city moves with purpose. But today, something different takes over the streets. The Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America, just months old, march in rows as sharp as the suits they craft. This isn't a quiet debut—it's a statement.


date: 2025-09-02
filename: DeadvleiTrees_EN-US4233800313.jpg
title: Ghosts of Deadvlei
copyright: Camel thorn trees, Deadvlei, Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia (© Inge Johnsson/Alamy)
story:
At first glance, it looks like a surreal art installation: dark trees frozen on a clay pan, backed by sand dunes and a glowing sky. But this scene from Deadvlei, in Namibia's Namib-Naukluft Park, is entirely natural. The name 'Deadvlei' means 'dead marsh'—a remnant of the wetland that once filled this basin.


date: 2025-09-03
filename: MinnesotaWaters_EN-US4282198656.jpg
title: Protected stillness
copyright: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota (© s.tomas/Shutterstock)
story:
The Wilderness Act of 1964, passed 61 years ago today, established the legal definition of wilderness in the United States. Its purpose was to preserve areas 'where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man.' This landmark legislation created the National Wilderness Preservation System, protecting millions of acres from development, roads, and mechanized use.


date: 2025-09-05
filename: SunsetPier_EN-US7261804528.jpg
title: A pier-fect evening
copyright: Pacific Park at Santa Monica State Beach, California (© EXTREME-PHOTOGRAPHER/Getty Images)
story:
When the sun clocks out in streaks of orange, pink, and purple, Santa Monica goes from laid-back to lit up. Literally. With over 3 miles of sand, a historic pier, and the Pacific Coast Highway keeping things scenic, this beach is more than just a pretty shoreline. Let's start with the sand. Wide, clean, and ready for volleyball or just flopping down with a good book, it's ideal for sunbathers and sandcastle architects alike. And yes, 'Baywatch' was filmed along Santa Monica Bay. Feel free to run in slow motion.


date: 2025-09-06
filename: RufousHummer_EN-US7346003108.jpg
title: A hum-dinger of a day
copyright: Rufous hummingbird, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California (© jeremyborkat/Getty Images)
story:
They fly backward, dive-bomb rivals, and travel farther than most road trippers. On National Hummingbird Day, meet the rufous hummingbird—photographed in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California. The bird, one of nine species in the genus Selasphorus, gets its name from its rusty, reddish-orange feathers. Males flash copper backs and red throat patches that shimmer in the sun. Females are more subdued but still carry streaks of rufous on their sides and tails.


date: 2025-09-07
filename: BlueGdansk_EN-US8032283831.jpg
title: Pastel dreams and still waters
copyright: Gdańsk on the banks of the Motława, Poland (© Oscar Dominguez/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Where cobbled charm meets coastal cool, Gdańsk is a dynamic city in Poland's Pomorskie province. It is part of Tricity—a metropolitan area along the Gdańsk Bay that includes the neighboring coastal cities of Sopot and Gdynia, along with nearby towns. The city likely takes its name from 'Gdania,' an earlier name for the Motława river that runs through it.


date: 2025-09-08
filename: OrchardLibrary_EN-US8095609746.jpg
title: Booked for the day
copyright: Library@orchard, Singapore (© Darwin Fan/Getty Images)
story:
Read it and believe it—literacy changes everything. As a basic human right, literacy is a powerful tool that opens the door to greater freedoms and active global citizenship. Recognizing its far-reaching impact, International Literacy Day—observed each year on September 8 since 1967—serves as a reminder of how vital literacy is in building a better, more sustainable future for all. This year, the theme explores literacy in a digital age, where technology continues to reshape how people learn, communicate, and participate in society. As a result, digital engagement has become both a challenge and an opportunity.


date: 2025-09-09
filename: SwissSquirrel_EN-US8185093853.jpg
title: Twig by twig, she prepares
copyright:
A female Eurasian red squirrel carrying moss, Switzerland (© Jean-Luc and Francoise Ziegler/Minden Pictures)

story:
Quick, clever, and always on the move—meet the Eurasian red squirrel, a leafy treetop resident found across much of Europe and Asia. While it prefers the shelter of forests, this agile creature easily adapts to gardens and parks. It builds its nest, called a drey, high in the fork of a tree using twigs to form a domed structure about 10 to 12 inches wide. The female featured here is gathering moss—one of several soft materials, along with bark, leaves, and grass, that line the nest and turn it into a snug, well-insulated retreat. These rodents may also take over tree hollows or abandoned woodpecker holes when available.


date: 2025-09-10
filename: YorkshireHay_EN-US8523120193.jpg
title: 'Hay' there!
copyright: Hay bales, North Yorkshire, England (© Nick Brundle Photography/Getty Images)
story:
'Make hay while the sun shines' may sound like an old proverb, but in farming it's a practical truth. Hay baling plays a crucial role in agriculture worldwide. It involves cutting, drying, and packaging grasses to feed livestock during the colder months. The process depends heavily on the weather: the grass must be dry before it's baled, or it risks molding. Farmers must act quickly once a dry spell arrives, making it a seasonal race.


date: 2025-09-11
filename: LibertyManhattan_EN-US8781721086.jpg
title: In unity and remembrance
copyright: Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan, New York City (© Tetra Images/Getty Images)
story:
September 11, 2001, began like any other day—until history changed in an instant. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were lost in the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard United Airlines Flight 93. Today, on Patriot Day, we honor the fallen and the countless acts of courage that emerged in the face of tragedy, from firefighters and first responders to ordinary citizens who became heroes. At 8:46 AM Eastern Time—the moment the first plane struck the North Tower—Americans observe a moment of silence. Permanent memorials now stand at each of the three sites. Visiting one or volunteering in your community is a meaningful way to participate in the National Day of Service and honor those who continue to serve.


date: 2025-09-12
filename: SpinnerDolphins_EN-US8860882818.jpg
title: Swim wild, swim free
copyright: Spinner dolphin pod in the Red Sea, Marsa Alam, Egypt (© Franco Banfi/Nature Picture Library)
story:
With lifelong bonds, signature whistles, and echolocation, dolphins are more than just smart swimmers. First observed in 2022, World Dolphin Day shines a light on these intelligent marine mammals and the oceans they rely on. The day encourages people to learn about their behavior and the threats they face. Over 40 dolphin species swim our seas, from the Māui dolphin to the Irrawaddy dolphin. They're expert navigators, problem-solvers, and team players. Some even form superpods—temporary gatherings of hundreds or thousands of dolphins moving together offshore.


date: 2025-09-13
filename: PointReyesSeashore_EN-US8949381326.jpg
title: Rugged and wild
copyright: Chimney Rock, Point Reyes National Seashore, California (© Enrique Aguirre Aves/Getty Images)
story:
It's not polished or curated—and that's exactly the point. Drive just over an hour north of San Francisco, and you'll reach Point Reyes National Seashore—a place where fog drifts slowly, tule elk roam freely, and time seems to pause. Established by Congress on this day in 1962, the park was set aside to protect this piece of coastline for public enjoyment and environmental conservation. It covers over 100 square miles and features an impressive array of landscapes, from coastal prairie and blustery headlands to sandy shores and Douglas fir woodlands.


date: 2025-09-14
filename: HohWaterfall_EN-US9003533736.jpg
title: Moss and mist
copyright: A waterfall in Olympic National Park, Washington (© Chris Moore/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Olympic National Park covers a rare mix of terrain—and that's part of its unique appeal. Alpine ridges, quiet forests, and one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline in the lower 48 all meet here. Spanning nearly 1,400 square miles in Washington State, this UNESCO World Heritage Site drew over 3.7 million visitors in 2024. Originally protected in 1909 as Mount Olympus National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt, the area became a national park in 1938.


date: 2025-09-15
filename: DallasLegorreta_EN-US9050675226.jpg
title: Vibrancy in every brick
copyright: Latino Cultural Center designed by Ricardo Legorreta, Dallas, Texas (© Ken Hurst/Alamy)
story:
What's as colorful as the diversity and history of humankind? The Latino Cultural Center in Dallas, Texas. Its vibrant walls—seen in today's image—rise from a 27,000-square-foot foundation and celebrate Latino and Hispanic arts and culture. From September 15 to October 15, our country observes Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.


date: 2025-09-16
filename: OzoneEarth_EN-US9728527733.jpg
title: A stratospheric success
copyright:
Nighttime view of the Gulf Coast states from 225 miles above Earth (© Stocktrek Images/Getty Images)

story:
What do invisible gases, vintage hairspray, and satellites have in common? They all played a role in one of the greatest environmental comebacks in history. Seen from 225 miles above, the Gulf Coast glows like a constellation—clusters of light scattered across the dark. But what truly makes this view possible can't be seen: the ozone layer, silently shielding everything below from the sun's ultraviolet rays. By the 1980s, that shield was thinning fast—damaged by chemicals once used in refrigeration and aerosol products. The solution? A global pact. The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, led to a swift phase-out of ozone-depleting substances. Today, satellites show that the hole over Antarctica is shrinking. Scientists believe it could be fully healed by mid-century.


date: 2025-09-17
filename: YoungMoose_EN-US2991221135.jpg
title: A crown in the making
copyright: Young bull moose in Denali National Park, Alaska (© Grant Ordelheide/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
He may be young, but these antlers speak of future battles. In Denali National Park, Alaska, a young bull moose lifts his head above the shrubs. At this stage, his antlers are more crown than weapon—still covered in velvet. But even now, they hint at a life shaped by instinct, sparring, and the quiet pull of dominance.


date: 2025-09-18
filename: DunquinIreland_EN-US9846056364.jpg
title: Ireland's western edge
copyright: Serpentine stairs of Dunquin Pier, County Kerry, Ireland (© Hugh O'Connor/Getty Images)
story:
This stunning view—where the sky meets the open waters of the Atlantic—is accessible only by foot. Tucked away on Ireland's wild and beautiful Dingle Peninsula, Dunquin Pier is one of the most photogenic spots in County Kerry. The small pier is famous for its winding, serpentine path that zigzags dramatically down the cliffside like a ribbon. These steep curves aren't just for the thrill—they're the only way to reach the pier below, where boats depart for the remote Blasket Islands.


date: 2025-09-19
filename: ThousandIslands_EN-US7884567746.jpg
title: A thousand reasons to visit
copyright: Thousand Islands region, St. Lawrence River, US-Canada border (© benedek/Getty Images)
story:
When you hear 'Thousand Islands,' you might think of a jar of salad dressing, but the namesake of that creamy condiment is one of North America's most enchanting regions. The Thousand Islands form an archipelago in the St. Lawrence River, spanning the state of New York and the province of Ontario. It is made up of more than 1,800 islands. Some of these islands have fairytale castles; others are barely big enough for a hammock. There's also Just Room Enough Island, which lives up to its name with a single house and a lone tree.


date: 2025-09-20
filename: OktoberfestSwing_EN-US7916182497.jpg
title: A tale of brews and views
copyright: Swing carousel at Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany (© LOOK-foto/Alamy)
story:
Every fall, Theresienwiese, a square in Munich, Germany, transforms into one of the world's largest festivals—Oktoberfest. First held in 1810 to celebrate a royal wedding, it has grown into a 16- to 18-day tradition attracting more than 6 million people from around the globe. The scale is staggering: The festival grounds span about 4.5 million square feet and host 14 main tents, each seating thousands. Each year, visitors consume around 7 million liters of beer, along with mountains of pretzels, sausages, and gingerbread hearts. All beer served at Oktoberfest comes from Munich breweries and meets the strict standards of the Reinheitsgebot, the German Beer Purity Law.


date: 2025-09-21
filename: IceOtters_EN-US7982442590.jpg
title: Otterly cool
copyright: Sea otters, Prince William Sound, Alaska (© Gerald Corsi/Getty Images)
story:
Think sea otters are just about whiskers and floating naps? There's more going on behind those button eyes. Every year, Sea Otter Awareness Week highlights their role in maintaining coastal ecosystems. Launched in 2003 by Defenders of Wildlife—a nonprofit conservation organization—this week promotes education and action. In Alaska's Prince William Sound, sea otters drift on ice or crack shellfish on their bellies using their favorite rock, as seen in today's image. Less visible is how their appetite for sea urchins helps protect kelp forests.


date: 2025-09-22
filename: AspenEquinox_EN-US8237887036.jpg
title: Midway to winter
copyright: Aspen trees during fall, Fishlake National Forest, Utah (© Danita Delimont/Getty Images)
story:
Fall isn't just marked by the calendar. Each September, Earth's subtle tilt brings the autumn equinox—one of two times a year when day and night are nearly equal in length. It marks the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. From solar alignments to changing leaves, nature offers its own quiet signals that the season has shifted. While for most of us it may seem like just another day, ancient cultures paid close attention to this change. Sites like Chichén Itzá in Mexico and England's Stonehenge were designed to align with the rising or setting sun during equinox days.


date: 2025-09-23
filename: ToucanForest_EN-US8319635845.jpg
title: Beak-side story
copyright: Keel-billed toucan in Costa Rica (© Juan Carlos Vindas/Getty Images)
story:
Spot a flash of yellow on its chest and a bill that looks painted by an artist—that's the keel-billed toucan. A member of the Ramphastidae family, which includes toucan barbets, it is one of more than 40 toucan species. Found from southern Mexico to northern Colombia, it spends much of its day plucking fruit with a rainbow-colored bill about one-third of its total length. It also eats insects, eggs, and small reptiles when available. The bill not only helps it eat but also keeps the toucan cool by radiating excess heat—thanks to the blood vessels running through it. This social bird often moves in small groups, chattering and gliding between treetops. With each wing measuring 7–8 inches, the keel-billed toucan molts, or sheds its feathers, just once a year.


date: 2025-09-24
filename: BearLodge_EN-US9061134971.jpg
title: The lonely giant
copyright: Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming (© Laura Hedien/Getty Images)
story:
Somewhere in the wide prairies of northeastern Wyoming stands Devils Tower, a stone formation that rises from the open plains. Once called Bear Lodge, the butte gained its current name during an 1875 expedition led by Colonel Richard Irving Dodge, possibly after an interpreter mistranslated a Native phrase as 'Bad God's Tower.' The missing apostrophe in its official title follows standard geographic naming conventions—hence, the signs read 'Devils Tower.' In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed it the nation's first national monument; a milestone whose anniversary falls today.


date: 2025-09-25
filename: FortChittorgarh_EN-US9184486139.jpg
title: Carved stones of courage
copyright: Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan, India (© chetansoni/Shutterstock)
story:
High on a hill rising over 590 feet in Rajasthan, India, Chittorgarh Fort spans approximately 690 acres. It stands as a proud witness to the valor of the famed warrior clans—the Rajputs. Their name comes from the Sanskrit 'rajaputra,' meaning 'son of a king,' and they are celebrated for their noble lineage and martial traditions across northern India. The fort's stone walls have witnessed centuries of courage, pride, and romance, remembered in the songs of Rajasthan's bards. According to legend, Bhim, a hero from the Hindu epic 'Mahabharata,' first laid its foundations.


date: 2025-09-26
filename: AutumnChipmunk_EN-US9248365602.jpg
title: The fast and the furriest
copyright: Least chipmunk, Kootenai National Forest, Montana (© Donald M. Jones/Minden Pictures)
story:
In the world of woodland critters, the least chipmunk might seem like the 'undersquirrel'—but don't count it out. With survival smarts and turbo-charged feet, this tiny rodent proves that being 'least' is no reason to squirrel away your potential. Weighing less than a deck of cards and measuring under 10 inches from nose to tail, this species is North America's smallest chipmunk.


date: 2025-09-27
filename: TankLakes_EN-US9278332978.jpg
title: Weeding and wishing
copyright: Tank Lakes, Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington (© Austin Trigg/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
When the calendar lines up just right, you get a rare double feature: National Public Lands Day and Astronomy Day. It's a chance to explore the landscapes that ground us and the skies that inspire us—all within 24 hours.


date: 2025-09-28
filename: PienzaItaly_EN-US8831227247.jpg
title: A taste of Pienza
copyright: Town of Pienza in Tuscany, Italy (© zpagistock/Getty Images)
story:
Some towns evolve slowly over centuries. Pienza? It received a full rebrand in the 1400s from a pope who wanted to prove a point—and maybe show off a little. This tiny Italian town is perched above the Val d'Orcia, surrounded by rolling hills that look exactly like you think Tuscany should: cypress trees, winding dirt roads, the occasional sheep. It's peaceful. And then you step inside the town walls, and it gets clever.


date: 2025-09-29
filename: HoutenHouses_EN-US8966537355.jpg
title: Rainbow rides and quiet vibes
copyright: The Rainbow Houses of Houten, Netherlands (© George Pachantouris/Getty Images)
story:
You won't find souvenir shops or tourist maps pointing the way—but follow the edge of Lake Rietplas in Houten, and you'll stumble upon one of the Netherlands' most unexpectedly photogenic sights. While many flock to Amsterdam's canals or Rotterdam's cube houses, this quiet commuter town offers its own architectural twist. Lined up like a mirage, the Rainbow Houses shimmer in bold, painterly hues—a residential block turned an understated cultural landmark.


date: 2025-09-30
filename: EucalyptusKoala_EN-US8743417111.jpg
title: Clinging to what matters
copyright:
Koala in a eucalyptus tree, Great Otway National Park, Australia (© Jamie Lamb - elusive-images.co.uk/Getty Images)

story:
Amid the lush eucalyptus canopy of Great Otway National Park, koalas reign as sleepy sentinels of Australia's wild soul. Often misnamed 'koala bears,' these marsupials are actually closer to wombats and tend to be instantly recognizable by their stout, tailless bodies, fluffy ears, and velvety black noses.


date: 2025-10-01
filename: YosemiteClark_EN-US8503376225.jpg
title: Echoes from the Clark Range
copyright:
Clark Range, Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park, California (© Robb Hirsch/TANDEM Stills + Motion)

story:
This year marks another milestone in the legacy of Yosemite National Park, a sanctuary protected since 1864 and celebrated for its awe-inspiring grandeur and ecological significance. Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite's nearly 1,200 square miles cradle granite giants, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. Among its lesser-known treasures lies the Clark Range—the rugged, high-elevation spine seen in today's image. It was named after Galen Clark, Yosemite's first guardian and a pioneer of conservation.


date: 2025-10-02
filename: OxbowBend_EN-US8471628790.jpg
title: Wild by law
copyright:
Oxbow Bend on the Snake River, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming (© DanitaDelimont.com/AWL Images/SuperStock)

story:
Beyond water, rivers carry life, history, and stories. They are nature's ever-moving contribution to our landscapes, flowing through lands and across time. One such gem is the Snake River, which winds through Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. A particularly stunning spot along this river is Oxbow Bend—featured in today's image—where calm waters reflect the towering Teton Range, and wildlife such as moose and bald eagles thrive. Here, water flows freely, unbound by concrete or commerce, protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, signed on this day in 1968.


date: 2025-10-03
filename: SkyeHeather_EN-US9221942108.jpg
title: Mist-bound reveries
copyright: Heather growing in Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye, Scotland (© Adam Mowery/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Mists curl, waters glimmer, and legends linger—welcome to Glen Brittle. On the Isle of Skye, Scotland's fabled 'Misty Isle,' the glen stretches in a sweep of purple heather carpeting its rugged slopes. The landscape hums with echoes of the past: dinosaurs left footprints on these cliffs long before Mesolithic hunters traced its streams over 8,000 years ago. In the 9th century, seafaring Norse Vikings settled here. Centuries later, the powerful MacLeod and MacDonald clans claimed these lands, their castles standing guard over countless battles and alliances.


date: 2025-10-04
filename: DragonEndeavour_EN-US9321246369.jpg
title: Mission: Possible
copyright: ISS main solar arrays seen from SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour (© NASA)
story:
From October 4 to 10, World Space Week invites us to transcend our earthly bounds and chase the stars. It was born from the launch of Sputnik 1 by the USSR in 1957 and the signing of the Outer Space Treaty in 1967, a pioneering international commitment to peaceful cosmic exploration. During this week, classrooms buzz with experiments, planetariums echo with wonder, and telescopes bridge the gap to distant galaxies. Together, these moments weave a universal story of science, discovery, and humanity's relentless drive to push boundaries. The week's mission is clear: to ignite the next generation of explorers, engineers, and dreamers ready to rewrite the cosmos.


date: 2025-10-05
filename: TeacherOwl_EN-US9991815804.jpg
title: Celebrating our teachers
copyright: Boreal owl in a forest in Central Europe (© Ondrej Prosicky/Alamy)
story:
The tradition of teaching is deeply rooted in human history. Today, we honor those who dedicate their lives to sharing knowledge and shaping minds. Happy World Teachers' Day to all the educators who have helped us become who we are.


date: 2025-10-06
filename: AnshunBridge_EN-US0059795497.jpg
title: To the moon and back
copyright:
Anshun Bridge illuminated for the Mid-Autumn Festival, Chengdu, China (© Philippe LEJEANVRE/Getty Images)

story:
The shiver felt under a full autumn moon, when the air hints at winter's arrival, has a way of lingering in memory. One of China's most cherished holidays, the Mid-Autumn Festival—also known as the Moon Festival—adds another touch of magic to the end of the harvest season. It's celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month of the Chinese calendar—this year, on October 6. According to legend, it's also the night when the moon goddess Chang'e watches over the world.


date: 2025-10-07
filename: RidgwayAspens_EN-US0136548884.jpg
title: Golden fall glow
copyright: Fall colors below Mount Sneffels near Ridgway, Colorado (© Grant Ordelheide/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
It's that time of year when the hills shed their summer greens, unveiling a blaze of colors that lights up the season. The change usually begins in September and early October, with higher slopes turning first, followed by the lower valleys. Among the stars of this display are the aspens, whose leaves shimmer like gold coins in the sunlight. The magic of aspen colors, however, isn't guaranteed year after year. Their golden glow depends on many factors—tree health, local weather shifts, soil moisture, and where they grow in terms of elevation and latitude. Healthy aspens are the true stars of the season: strong, thriving groves burst with brighter colors and hold onto their leaves longer, while stressed or weakened trees often fade quickly, offering only a glimpse of their usual brilliance. Today's image captures their full glow at the base of Mount Sneffels, the highest peak in Colorado's Sneffels Range, rising more than 7,000 feet above the town of Ridgway.


date: 2025-10-08
filename: OctopusCyanea_EN-US0194861123.jpg
title: Camouflage in motion
copyright: Day octopus in the waters off Maui, Hawaii (© Dave Fleetham/plainpicture)
story:
With eight arms and plenty of charm, the octopus takes the spotlight today. On World Octopus Day, as we reflect on their brilliance, we're reminded that even these ocean geniuses can't outsmart threats like climate change and pollution. Protecting their homes means safeguarding the future of our seas.


date: 2025-10-09
filename: WebbPillars_EN-US0251661895.jpg
title: Universe in bloom
copyright: The Pillars of Creation viewed by the James Webb Space Telescope (© NASA)
story:
As World Space Week draws to a close, the cosmos continues to give us reasons to look up in awe. Picture clouds—not drifting across our skies, but stretching across space itself, cradling the birth of new stars. That's exactly what NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has revealed in its view of the Pillars of Creation—shown here—with colors and details unlike anything seen before.


date: 2025-10-10
filename: MonurikiFiji_EN-US0326449622.jpg
title: A reef of reflection
copyright: Coral reef surrounding the island of Monuriki, Mamanuca Islands, Fiji (© David Wall/SuperStock)
story:
Some dates mark a single milestone—Fiji's October 10 marks two. On that day in 1874, the islands officially became a British colony. Almost a century later, in 1970, the same date saw Fiji raise its own flag and declare independence. Fiji Day is a unique national holiday—part reflection, part celebration. The day begins with formal ceremonies, where the Fijian flag is hoisted and leaders deliver speeches. Schools and community groups often stage reenactments and performances. Streets fill with parades, villages host cultural dances like the meke, and rugby pitches come alive with matches. Families prepare traditional dishes like lovo, where meat and root crops are cooked underground, and kokoda, a citrus-marinated fish dish.


date: 2025-10-11
filename: WoodDuckHen_EN-US0382439406.jpg
title: Nest stop, Mexico!
copyright: Wood duck hen (© ps50ace/iStock/Getty Images)
story:
Birds don't bother with passports, visas, or luggage—they just spread their wings and go. Twice a year, billions of migratory birds crisscross the globe, flying thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds. That epic commute is exactly what World Migratory Bird Day highlights. From the Arctic tern, which logs about 44,000 miles a year, to the tiny ruby-throated hummingbird crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single flight, these seasonal fliers show what endurance really looks like. Observed on the second Saturday in May and October, the day also draws attention to the challenges migratory birds face: habitat loss, climate change, and light pollution can all disrupt their routes.


date: 2025-10-12
filename: SaranacLake_EN-US0445660450.jpg
title: Falling for Saranac
copyright: Village of Saranac Lake, Adirondack Mountains, New York (© DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images)
story:
Some places are just stops on the map, but Saranac Lake in New York's Adirondack Mountains is a destination that keeps people hooked year-round. Despite its name, this village isn't directly on the Saranac Lakes themselves but rather on Lake Flower, a wide section of the Saranac River. For centuries, the area—nicknamed 'The Capital of the Adirondacks'—was used by Indigenous peoples for hunting and travel. By the late 19th century, it gained fame as a health retreat, where Dr. Edward Livingston Trudeau pioneered fresh-air treatment for tuberculosis. The cure cottages from that era still stand today.


date: 2025-10-13
filename: MuleCanyon_EN-US0527899523.jpg
title: Flames of the past
copyright: House on Fire Ruin in Mule Canyon, Cedar Mesa, Utah (© Pete Lomchid/Getty Images)
story:
Canyons and mesas across the US hold more than striking scenery—they carry centuries of Indigenous history. Indigenous Peoples' Day, celebrated nationally on the second Monday of October, honors that history. The holiday began gaining ground in 1992, when Berkeley, California, became the first city to replace Columbus Day with a celebration of Native cultures. It recognizes Native nations as the earliest protectors of the land and acknowledges their ongoing cultural contributions.


date: 2025-10-14
filename: OiaSantorini_EN-US0585833457.jpg
title: Dreams painted in blue and white
copyright: Village of Oia, Santorini, Greece (© f9photos/Getty Images)
story:
Ever wondered what it's like to live on a movie set? Oia is about as close as it gets, part of Greece's Santorini archipelago. This village has appeared in films like 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' and 'Tomb Raider,' thanks to its Cycladic houses—cube-shaped homes with flat roofs—and cliffside views that feel almost unreal. Its unique architecture has roots in the late 19th century. Sailors and merchants carved houses right into the volcanic cliffs—cool in summer and warm in winter. The white-and-blue theme is also more than just for show: houses were painted with lime wash so rainwater would run off and be collected. Today, visitors wander its cobbled lanes, explore the Naval Maritime Museum, or climb to the ruins of Agios Nikolaos Castle for unforgettable sunsets.


date: 2025-10-15
filename: AmethystLaccaria_EN-US0640413961.jpg
title: The spore the merrier
copyright: Amethyst laccaria mushrooms, Seabeck, Washington (© Danita Delimont/Shutterstock)
story:
Did you know there's a day just for mushrooms? Every October 15, National Mushroom Day invites us to discover their fascinating world. Take the amethyst laccaria, pictured here. Also known as the amethyst deceiver, its bright purple color is dazzling when young, but it fades with age and weathering, making it tricky to identify. Despite its delicate, ever-changing appearance, this jewel-toned fungus is edible and plays a vital role in the ecosystem.


date: 2025-10-16
filename: SiberianLynx_EN-US0696336220.jpg
title: The phantom cat
copyright: Eurasian lynx in Siberia (© Mario Plechaty Photograph/Shutterstock)
story:
Think of a cat that can vanish into the forest without a sound—that's the Eurasian lynx. With its tufted ears and a piercing gaze, this feline is the largest of the four lynx species. Stretching up to 42 inches in length and standing as tall as 30 inches at the shoulder, the Eurasian lynx is built for power and precision. Its padded paws aren't just for sneaking; they act like snowshoes, spreading its weight so it can chase down prey in deep winter drifts. Mostly a nocturnal hunter, it spends its days tucked away in thickets or rocky dens, venturing out under the cover of darkness to stalk deer, hares, and squirrels.


date: 2025-10-17
filename: RockRiverFalls_EN-US2428797661.jpg
title: Falling for Michigan
copyright: Rock River Falls, Upper Peninsula, Michigan (© Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Nestled within Michigan's Rock River Canyon Wilderness, Rock River Falls emerges amid a landscape shaped by glaciers, dense woods, and layers of history. In the Upper Peninsula, humans have left their traces for millennia: Indigenous Algonquian-speaking peoples were followed by French and British explorers, and waves of Finnish, Swedish, and French-Canadian immigrants settled there during the 19th-century mining and logging booms. Today, this sparsely populated region hosts barely 3% of Michigan's residents, cradling its forests and waterfalls in near-natural serenity.


date: 2025-10-18
filename: SilburyHill_EN-US2485144120.jpg
title: The hill that remembers
copyright: Neolithic site of Silbury Hill, Tilshead, Wiltshire, England (© dbstockphoto/Getty Images)
story:
Each year, International Archaeology Day—observed on the third Saturday of October—invites us to literally look beneath the surface. Established in 2011 by the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), it's celebrated worldwide through events, tours, and hands-on excavations.


date: 2025-10-19
filename: AppleHarvest_EN-US2977882687.jpg
title: Sweet on science
copyright: Apples ready for harvest, Minnesota (© Tammi Mild/Getty Images)
story:
In Minnesota, autumn carries more than crimson leaves—it brings the crisp promise of apple season. From mid-August through late October, orchards across the state open their rows of Honeycrisp, Haralson, and dozens of other cultivars, each bred for flavor, resilience, and charm. Today's image captures that moment: branches heavy with ripe fruit, ready for harvest.


date: 2025-10-20
filename: HoffmansSloth_EN-US3030106938.jpg
title: Life in the slow lane
copyright: A Hoffmann's two-toed sloth in Ecuador (© Murray Cooper/Minden Pictures)
story:
How good would it feel if you could just hang out and do absolutely nothing all day? That's exactly what sloths do, and today, we celebrate them. International Sloth Day honors these unhurried creatures and reminds us that life doesn't always need to be rushed. Sloths are tree-dwelling mammals native to Central and South America. Their deliberate movements conserve energy, avoid predators, and even allow algae to grow on their fur, creating green camouflage among the canopy. Hoffmann's two-toed sloth, pictured here, is a prime example of the slow-paced lifestyle typical of all sloths. It spends most of its time in the trees, occasionally descending to the ground to move to a new one.


date: 2025-10-22
filename: BulgariaRocks_EN-US3184562282.jpg
title: Set in stone
copyright: Belogradchik Rocks, Bulgaria (© EvaL Miko/Shutterstock)
story:
In Bulgaria, on the western slopes of the Balkan Mountains, the Belogradchik Rocks stand like a natural gallery where every formation tells a tale. Shaped over millions of years by erosion, these sandstone and limestone pillars twist and tower into outlines that locals swear resemble people, animals, and even entire scenes. That's why names like 'The Horseman,' 'The Schoolgirl,' and 'The Monks' have stuck—it's a landscape where spotting shapes feels a bit like playing nature's version of charades.


date: 2025-10-23
filename: SnowLeopard_EN-US3294064537.jpg
title: Snow much love
copyright:
Snow leopard with her cubs, Spiti Valley, Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, India (© Oriol Alamany/naturepl.com)

story:
Ever tried spotting a snow leopard in the wild? It's called the 'ghost of the mountains' for a reason—you're more likely to see its pawprints than the big cat itself. But every October 23, the species steps into the spotlight on International Day of the Snow Leopard, a day set aside to protect this elusive predator and its rugged home.


date: 2025-10-24
filename: QueenMary_EN-US3331250680.jpg
title: From 'Grey Ghost' to ghost stories
copyright: Night view of the RMS Queen Mary, Long Beach, California (© Kit Leong/Shutterstock)
story:
She was never meant to fade away. When the RMS Queen Mary sailed in 1936, she stole the spotlight across the Atlantic—an Art Deco liner that broke speed records and carried celebrities, royalty, and dignitaries. War transformed her from a floating palace into the 'Grey Ghost,' stripped of luxury and loaded with Allied troops. In 1967, after 30 years at sea, she retired to Long Beach, where her decks now serve as hotel corridors, guided exhibits, and a living monument to maritime history.


date: 2025-10-25
filename: MartimoaapaFinland_EN-US3685817058.jpg
title: Finland's living peatland
copyright: Aerial view of peatland in Martimoaapa Mire Reserve, Finland (© romikatarina/Shutterstock)
story:
Today, we step into the Martimoaapa Mire Reserve in Finland, where wide, cold-climate wetlands and peatlands stretch across a landscape shaped over thousands of years. This reserve is more than just mires—it carries layers of history. During Finland's Prohibition era (1919–1932), smugglers hauled sacks of liquor from Sweden across these bogs, following a 'spirits' route that passed through Martimoaapa. Parts of that path can still be traced today. Imagine trekking with a heavy pack over soggy ground—would you have made it?


date: 2025-10-26
filename: PumpkinFarm_EN-US3773448576.jpg
title: Oh my gourd, it's today!
copyright: Pumpkin farm in North Carolina (© Matthew H Irvin/Getty Images)
story:
Nothing says fall like spotting a field full of pumpkins waiting to be picked. These gourds have rolled their way into pies, porches, lattes, and parades, but today they get the spotlight: It's National Pumpkin Day. Some places go all out to show their affection—Morton, Illinois, calls itself the 'Pumpkin Capital of the World,' thanks to its high production and ties to canned pumpkin. New Hampshire follows closely, with pumpkin as its official state fruit.


date: 2025-10-27
filename: AfricanRaven_EN-US4057369898.jpg
title: Bigger, bolder, beakier
copyright: Thick-billed raven, Simien Mountains, Ethiopia (© Ignacio Yufera/FLPA/Minden Pictures)
story:
Perched high in the mountains of Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia, the thick-billed raven holds the title of the world's largest raven. At nearly 28 inches in length and weighing more than 3 pounds, it is about a quarter heavier than the common raven. Its enormous, arched bill—pale at the base and close to 3.5 inches long—is the largest among perching birds. These ravens live mostly between 5,000 and 11,200 feet above sea level, found across farmland, rocky cliffs, and even rooftops in mountain towns.


date: 2025-10-28
filename: TepliceRocks_EN-US4098225022.jpg
title: A gateway to stone wonders
copyright: The Gothic Gate in the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, Czechia (© Kseniya_Milner/Getty Images)
story:
From 18th-century visitors to fire-carved trails, this rock city tells a story of survival. Hidden in Czechia's Hradec Králové Region, the Adršpach–Teplice Rocks form Central Europe's largest sandstone labyrinth. For centuries, the cliffs and passages lay cloaked in forest, until a great fire stripped the land bare. Arches, towers, and winding corridors emerged out of the ashes, and the first hiking paths were carved into the rock. Soon after, explorers and poets left their marks with stone inscriptions that captured a destination both wild and enchanting.


date: 2025-10-29
filename: FanalForest_EN-US4405104404.jpg
title: Rooted in time
copyright: Ancient til trees in Fanal Forest, island of Madeira, Portugal (© Lukas Jonaitis/Shutterstock)
story:
The Portuguese island of Madeira—about 600 miles southwest of mainland Portugal—hides a forest unlike any other. On its northern slopes lies Fanal Forest, where veils of mist drift through centuries-old til trees. These are part of the Laurissilva of Madeira—an outstanding relict of a once widespread laurel forest type. Laurissilva is the largest surviving area of its kind, with about 90% considered primary forest. Home to a unique array of plants and animals, including endemic species such as the Madeiran long-toed pigeon, it remains a living museum of natural history.


date: 2025-10-30
filename: PushkarFair_EN-US4430814252.jpg
title: Hooves, hues, and heritage
copyright: Camels at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India (© f9photos/Getty Images)
story:
Every fall, the desert town of Pushkar in Rajasthan, India, comes alive with one of the most colorful gatherings—the Pushkar Camel Fair. Timed with the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, it usually takes place between late October and early November on the Gregorian calendar. This year, the celebrations stretch from today until November 5, marking the region's most anticipated season.


date: 2025-10-31
filename: BranCastle_EN-US5914201029.jpg
title: Under the Halloween spell
copyright: Entrance of Bran Castle in Bran, Brașov, Romania (© blue sky in my pocket/Getty Images)
story:
Tonight, Halloween casts its spell—and only a few places on Earth carry a mystery quite like Bran Castle in Romania. The fortress was built in the 14th century and has withstood wars, monarchs, and shifting empires. But here, legends speak louder than history. Perched between the regions of Transylvania—renowned for its chilling tales—and Wallachia, once ruled by Vlad III Dracula, the castle evokes a haunting legacy. Vlad's ruthless reputation inspired Bram Stoker's 1897 Gothic novel 'Dracula.' Though the story is not set at Bran Castle, its looming form and persistent rumors of Vlad's presence blur fact and legend, forever linking it to one of humanity's most enduring tales.


date: 2025-11-01
filename: BisonSprings_EN-US6080228013.jpg
title: Herds of heritage
copyright:
Bison grazing at thermal hot springs, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming (© Cheryl Ramalho/Getty Images)

story:
The bison embodies a paradox: immense strength paired with quiet calm. Weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing 6 feet tall, these giants roam North America's grasslands and river valleys in mobile herds. Photographed here in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, they once numbered in the tens of millions but were nearly eradicated in the 19th century—a loss that reshaped ecosystems and disrupted lifeways.


date: 2025-11-02
filename: KyotoMaple_EN-US6732403492.jpg
title: Where bamboo breathes and maples blaze
copyright: Colorful maple leaves and bamboo forest in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan (© DoctorEgg/Getty Images)
story:
Today, we travel to the Arashiyama district in Kyoto, renowned for its captivating seasonal landscapes. Here, vibrant Japanese maple trees and serene bamboo forests create a harmonious blend of color and tranquility. These maples, known for their delicate, deeply lobed leaves, turn fiery shades of red, orange, and gold during fall, attracting visitors from around the world. They are celebrated not only for their beauty but also for their cultural symbolism—representing elegance, peace, and the fleeting nature of life.


date: 2025-11-03
filename: MexicoJelly_EN-US6803524310.jpg
title: Just jellin'
copyright: Jellyfish swimming in the Pacific, Guerrero, Mexico (© Christian Vizl/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
They don't have brains, bones, or even hearts, yet jellyfish have pulsed through Earth's oceans for half a billion years. Today, on World Jellyfish Day, these wobbly wonders get their moment in the sun—or at least under the sea. The day promotes efforts to protect jellyfish habitats from threats like pollution, nutrient-rich runoff, and ocean acidification.


date: 2025-11-04
filename: TowerBridgeUK_EN-US6871236865.jpg
title: Mind the gap—this one opens
copyright: Tower Bridge, London, England (© Nick Brundle Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Some bridges connect two sides. Tower Bridge connects history, engineering, and a flair for drama. Standing next to the Tower of London and rising over the River Thames since 1894, this London icon literally knows how to lift spirits—and traffic. With its twin towers, blue-and-white paintwork, and bascules that open like a giant's drawbridge, Tower Bridge is less a traffic solution and more a stage performer.


date: 2025-11-05
filename: MoncayoAutumn_EN-US1753631441.jpg
title: Orange you glad it's fall?
copyright:
Peña Roya beech forest, Moncayo Natural Park, Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain (© David Santiago Garcia/DEEPOL by plainpicture)

story:
Spain's Aragon region isn't exactly famous for its forests—it's more 'sun and scrub' than 'shade and shuffle.' And yet, climb the slopes of Moncayo and you'll walk straight into a twist ending: a dense, whispering beech forest. The mountain is a climate roller coaster. At the bottom? Mediterranean shrubs. Midway up? Oaks and pines. Push further? Suddenly you're in Peña Roya, a beech wonderland that seems to say, 'Surprise, leaf it to me!'


date: 2025-11-06
filename: LanternsThailand_EN-US6955074347.jpg
title: Sky full of wishes
copyright:
Colorful lanterns at the temple of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun, Thailand (© MR. ANUJAK JAIMOOK/Getty Images)

story:
What would you wish for if a single lantern could carry your heart's desire skyward? Tonight, in northern Thailand, the Yi Peng festival offers that chance. This centuries-old Lanna tradition celebrates the 12th lunar month with glowing paper lanterns—khom loi—that are released to honor the Buddha. Each lantern is believed to carry away misfortune and light the way toward a brighter future. Children steady the lantern frames, elders whisper blessings, and the crowd pauses as hundreds of lights drift higher than the trees. Farther south, the same full moon watches over Loy Krathong, a sister festival, where candlelit rafts glide across the water.


date: 2025-11-07
filename: WillowBear_EN-US6995170630.jpg
title: Week of the white bear
copyright: Polar bear in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (© karen crewe/Getty Images)
story:
What's drawing scientists, travelers, and cameras to Manitoba, Canada, this week? Polar Bear Week is here, and it's more than a date on the calendar. For over a decade, Polar Bears International—a non-profit organization—has invited people to stream live cams and follow daily updates as the bears head to Hudson Bay. It's a week of learning and a call to protect a fragile ecosystem.


date: 2025-11-08
filename: BandonBeach_EN-US7099626478.jpg
title: Rock stars of Bandon
copyright: Sea stacks of Bandon Beach in Bandon, Oregon (© Grant Ordelheide/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Pull off of Highway 101, and Bandon, Oregon, greets you with salty air and the clang of harbor bells. The town began as a small settlement in the 1850s and grew into a center for timber and salmon fishing. Cranberries became a key crop and are still celebrated each September during the Cranberry Festival. Old Town reflects that past with boardwalk cafés and galleries, while the Coquille River Lighthouse stands restored at Bullards Beach as a reminder of the days when its beacon guided ships.


date: 2025-11-09
filename: LagoonNebula_EN-US7186308623.jpg
title: Once upon a star
copyright: Interstellar clouds in the Lagoon Nebula, captured by the Hubble Space Telescope (© ESA/NASA)
story:
The universe hums with creation. Featured here, in the Lagoon Nebula, a cluster called NGC 6530 is kindling newborn stars, a glowing reminder that beginnings are woven into the fabric of the cosmos. About 4,350 light-years away and a few million years old, it is a stellar formation still in its earliest chapter.


date: 2025-11-10
filename: PrairieDogTown_EN-US6854295076.jpg
title: Life hidden beneath the prairie
copyright:
Black-tailed prairie dogs at Roberts Prairie Dog Town, Badlands National Park, South Dakota (© Greg Vaughn/Getty Images)

story:
On November 10, 47 years ago, a stark stretch of South Dakota prairie gained recognition as one of America's natural treasures. Badlands National Park, carved by wind and water, was redesignated from national monument to national park status in 1978, securing stronger protection within the National Park System. Its cliffs and spires rise above fossil beds that reveal ancient rhinoceroses, camels, and subtropical seas. Yet the park is not only a window into the past; it also safeguards one of the largest remaining tracts of mixed-grass prairie in the US.


date: 2025-11-11
filename: MarineMemorial_EN-US6899836690.jpg
title: Honoring their service
copyright: Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington, Virginia (© f11photo/Shutterstock)
story:
Veterans Day, observed every year on November 11, honors all US military veterans—those who have served in war and peace, past and present. It's a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by millions of Americans who have worn a uniform with pride and courage.


date: 2025-11-12
filename: ColosseumRome_EN-US6932882124.jpg
title: All roads lead to Rome
copyright: Aerial view of the Colosseum, Rome, Italy (© Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Think modern sports are dramatic? Ancient Romans had front-row seats to spectacles far more intense inside the Colosseum. Commissioned by the Flavian emperor Vespasian in 72 CE and finished by his son Titus in 80 CE, this amphitheater broke tradition with its predecessors that were built into hillsides for natural support. Instead, the Colosseum was a fully free-standing architectural giant. Crafted from stone and concrete, its arches and vaults supported an arena that could host up to 50,000 spectators. Gladiators, exotic animals, and even staged sea battles thrilled the crowds, while hidden elevators and trapdoors created sudden, dramatic appearances.


date: 2025-11-13
filename: AloeDichotoma_EN-US6966316373.jpg
title: Quivering under starlight
copyright: Quiver trees under the Milky Way, Keetmanshoop, Namibia (© Wim van den Heever/naturepl.com)
story:
Of all the plants on Earth, the quiver tree looks the most like a vision from the future. Found in Southern Africa, including parts of Namibia, these striking giants are not true trees but a species of aloe adapted to life under the desert's scorching sun. Their thick trunks store water, while their branches reflect heat, helping them endure harsh conditions. Reaching up to 23 feet in height, with some living for more than 100 years, quiver trees are also vital to their ecosystem. They offer rare perches and nesting sites for birds in landscapes where few other trees exist.


date: 2025-11-14
filename: ManateeBaby_EN-US5594953777.jpg
title: A slow reminder for a fast world
copyright: Mother manatee and calf, Crystal River, Florida (© Gregory Sweeney/Getty Images)
story:
November isn't just about turkey dinners and pumpkin pie—it's also Manatee Awareness Month, when we show some love to the ocean's chillest stars. Forget dolphins doing flips or sharks stealing headlines—manatees win hearts by doing, well, almost nothing. And that's the charm.


date: 2025-11-15
filename: IrohazakaAutumn_EN-US9137140715.jpg
title: Bend it like Nikko
copyright: Irohazaka Road in fall, Nikko, Tochigi, Japan (© oneinchpunch/Shutterstock)
story:
If you think the alphabet is straightforward, Japan's Irohazaka Road in Nikko will twist that belief right out of you. Named after the old Japanese syllabary 'Iroha,' this mountain pass once had 48 hairpin bends—each curve matched to a character of the alphabet. Today, it's a pair of separate one-way roads—one goes up, the other comes down, and both make drivers feel as if they're spelling out a story with every turn.


date: 2025-11-16
filename: LyonTraboules_EN-US9432784340.jpg
title: Passages with a past
copyright: A traboule in Lyon, France (© TPopova/Getty Images)
story:
In Lyon, France, you don't just walk through the city—you glide through it. The traboules, a network of hidden passageways threading between courtyards and buildings, turn a simple stroll into a treasure hunt. They were the original shortcuts, allowing residents to dodge rain, carry goods, or move discreetly through the medieval quarters. Today, they're less about practicality and more about discovery. These passages date back to the fourth century but became essential during the Renaissance, when silk traders used them to shuttle delicate fabrics safely from workshops to the river without braving the weather. Later, during World War II, Resistance fighters used the traboules as escape routes.


date: 2025-11-17
filename: ShenandoahTrail_EN-US8964689271.jpg
title: The trails' call
copyright: Fall colors in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (© Michael Ver Sprill/Getty Images)
story:
National Take a Hike Day is more than a date—it's an invitation to step away from screens and into the rhythm of nature. Created by the American Hiking Society, this day celebrates the simple act of walking under open skies and reminds us that health and happiness often begin with a single stride. Across 60,000 miles of US trails, hikers rediscover the quiet magic of forests, the strength in their own breath, and the promise of unspoiled landscapes.


date: 2025-11-18
filename: AutumnMerganser_EN-US5860535351.jpg
title: Fall's feathered headliner
copyright: Male hooded merganser, Oregon (© Eric Vogt/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Each fall, Oregon's quiet waterways become seasonal waypoints for hooded mergansers—small diving ducks native to North America. They are agile divers, plunging beneath the surface to catch fish and other prey. Males, known as drakes, stand out with their fan-shaped white crests, dark heads, and chestnut-brown sides, while females, called hens, are brownish gray with smaller crests. Oregon's lakes and wetlands provide sheltered feeding grounds as these birds migrate or winter across the continent.


date: 2025-11-19
filename: BudapestParliament_EN-US5929195878.jpg
title: Stone, symbol, and a nation's story
copyright: Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest, Hungary (© Alexander Spatari/Getty Images)
story:
Step closer, and the details begin to speak—every stone, spire, and statue seems to hold a story of its own. Conceived in the late 19th century, the Hungarian Parliament Building was designed to reflect a nation's ambition, blending Gothic Revival elegance with distinctly Hungarian motifs. Architect Imre Steindl's vision took shape over two decades through the work of more than 1,000 craftsmen. Even the central dome, rising 315 feet (96 meters) high, carries meaning: the height honors the year of Hungary's millennium anniversary in 1896. Completed in 1904, the building still dominates Budapest's skyline as a powerful national symbol.


date: 2025-11-20
filename: SaypeGeneva_EN-US6121087903.jpg
title: Sketched into history
copyright:
Artist Saype poses with his land art painting at UN Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland (© Valentin Flauraud/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

story:
On the lawns of the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, two children lean over a blank page, sketching the world as they dream it could be. This scene unfolds in 'World in Progress II,' a monumental land art painting created by Swiss-French artist Saype in 2020. Made with biodegradable paint, the artwork depicts the vision and innocence at the heart of World Children's Day—a spirit mirrored in today's featured image. Look closer, and you'll spot the artist himself posing with his artwork.


date: 2025-11-21
filename: SealWaving_EN-US6277930581.jpg
title: Sealed with a hello
copyright:
Harbor seals at Robert Moses State Park, Long Island, New York (© Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/Getty Images)

story:
This harbor seal, photographed at Robert Moses State Park on Long Island, New York, seems to be onto something—spreading good vibes, one wave at a time. That's exactly the spirit of World Hello Day, celebrated every November 21. This cheerful observance began in 1973 when two American brothers, Brian and Michael McCormack, launched it as a peaceful response to global tensions. They mailed 1,360 letters in seven languages to world leaders, inviting them to join the first celebration. Their message was simple yet powerful: personal communication can help preserve peace. Today, people in more than 180 countries participate.


date: 2025-11-22
filename: LeshanBuddha_EN-US6412307232.jpg
title: The guardian of the waters
copyright: Leshan Giant Buddha, Sichuan, China (© www.anotherdayattheoffice.org/Getty Images)
story:
There are big statues—and then there's the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved into a riverside cliff at the confluence of the Min, Qingyi, and Dadu Rivers in Sichuan, China, this statue is an ancient engineering marvel. Construction began in 713 CE under a monk named Hai Tong, who hoped that the Buddha's presence would calm dangerous river currents that threatened passing boats. He was so devoted that when funding ran out, he reportedly gouged out his own eyes to prove his sincerity. Construction took roughly 90 years and was completed long after Hai Tong's death. At 233 feet tall, it is the largest stone Buddha in the world. Its shoulders stretch about 92 feet wide, its ears measure nearly 23 feet long, and each foot extends over 28 feet. Drainage channels built inside the statue protect it from erosion, helping explain its remarkable preservation for more than 12 centuries.


date: 2025-11-23
filename: MadgascarAmmonite_EN-US6525238032.jpg
title: Nature's secret code
copyright: Ammonite fossil from Madagascar (© ThomasLENNE/Shutterstock)
story:
Look closely at this ammonite fossil. Its swirling shell, once home to a prehistoric sea creature, holds a mathematical secret—a spiral pattern. Each new chamber is proportionally larger than the previous one, maintaining a consistent growth ratio, often associated with the Fibonacci sequence.


date: 2025-11-24
filename: GwailorFort_EN-US6671653416.jpg
title: Secrets in stone
copyright: Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh, India (© ImagesofIndia/Shutterstock)
story:
Gwalior, in Madhya Pradesh, is not just a city; it is a chapter of India's history. Towering over the skyline, Gwalior Fort is a 6th-century hill fort shaped by generations of rulers and wrapped in legend. Nicknamed 'the Gibraltar of India,' this fort was praised by Mughal emperor Babur as the 'pearl among the fortresses of Hind' for its strength and grandeur. The fort has seen rulers from the Tomars to the Mughals and is linked to battles, royal intrigue, and hidden treasures.


date: 2025-11-25
filename: TreviFountain_EN-US6800145474.jpg
title: Love, luck, and loose change
copyright: The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy (© Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Ever heard coins clinking louder than applause? That's the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy, for you—a spot where history, hope, and selfie sticks collide. Completed in 1762, it marks the endpoint of one of ancient Rome's earliest aqueducts, the Aqua Virgo, which still supplies water today. The name 'Trevi' comes from Tre Vie—'three roads'—signifying the junction where it stands. Designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and finished by Giuseppe Pannini, this 86-foot marvel is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous in the world. Its sculptures show Oceanus, the god of the sea, surrounded by Tritons and horses.


date: 2025-11-26
filename: OliveGrove_EN-US7076835672.jpg
title: 'Leaf' it to history
copyright: Olive orchard in the Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain (© cinoby/Getty Images)
story:
Ancient yet vibrant, twisted yet resilient, olive trees can live for over a thousand years. Even when scarred or hollowed, their trunks still send out fresh leaves each season—a living record of survival through drought, wind, and fire. In 2019, UNESCO established November 26 as World Olive Tree Day, recognizing these trees that have been cultivated by humans since about 6,000 BCE. Olives have carried both practical and symbolic weight through the ages: their oil was pressed for anointing, medicine, and daily sustenance; crowns of their leaves graced Olympic victors; and their branches became a lasting emblem of peace.


date: 2025-11-27
filename: TurkeyDetail_EN-US7401521602.jpg
title: The echoes of Plymouth
copyright:
Male wild turkey plumage, Aransas Natural Wildlife Refuge, Texas (© George McCarthy/Minden Pictures)

story:
The wild turkey's iridescent plumage, seen here at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas, isn't just striking—it carries the shimmer of history. Today is Thanksgiving, when many Americans gather around the table, enjoying roast turkey stuffed with savory bread dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Football games hum in the background, parades march down city streets, and kitchens buzz with the familiar aromas of holiday cooking.


date: 2025-11-28
filename: ConchaBelt_EN-US6625864424.jpg
title: Wear your heritage
copyright:
Collection of silver Native American concho belts, Santa Fe, New Mexico (© julien mcroberts/Shutterstock)

story:
Think Thanksgiving weekend is just about turkey and leftovers? Think again—today is Native American Heritage Day. Established in 2009, it celebrates the voices, art, and achievements of Indigenous peoples across the United States. This day is a reminder to look beyond parades and sales and learn from the experiences of those who first shaped this land. Communities host cultural events, storytelling sessions, and feasts featuring dishes like Three Sisters soup, wild rice, pemmican, beans, squash, and buffalo stew—each carrying centuries of legacy.


date: 2025-11-29
filename: DeerVeluwe_EN-US6795108723.jpg
title: Oh deer, it's cold!
copyright: Red deer stag in De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Netherlands (© CreativeNature_nl/Getty Images)
story:
Picture 21 square miles of open land, wildlife on the move, and a stag flaunting its crown of antlers. In 1909, husband and wife Anton Kröller and Helene Kröller-Müller began building a private estate in Gelderland, Netherlands—what we now know as De Hoge Veluwe National Park. Their vision? To merge art and nature. They brought it to life by placing artwork within the landscape, like 'Three Upright Motives' by English sculptor Henry Moore in the Pampelse Zand and the President Steyn stone bench by Belgian architect Henry van de Velde, among others.


date: 2025-11-30
filename: LeipzigMarket_EN-US6493622236.jpg
title: Twinkle all the way
copyright: Christmas market in Leipzig, Germany (© Krzysztof Baranowski/Getty Images)
story:
Do you know what people bought at Christmas markets 567 years ago? Not costly ornaments or fancy souvenirs but candles, spices, local goods, knitted items, and toys. Leipzig's Christmas market began in 1458 and quickly became a favorite stop for merchants and locals alike. Today, with its cultural and culinary offerings spread across the historic old town and about 300 stalls, it is one of the largest Christmas markets in Germany. Imagine streets buzzing with the chatter of traders and children following the scent of 'Lebkuchen'—honey-sweetened cakes. This is where townsfolk gather to celebrate winter and catch up on news while sipping mulled wine. These markets have always symbolized more than shopping—they offer an escape from the everyday routine.


date: 2025-12-01
filename: AntarcticArch_EN-US6560308300.jpg
title: Where ice holds its breath
copyright: Natural arch carved in an iceberg, Antarctica (© Gabrielle/Adobe Stock)
story:
Some photos capture nature's grand acts. Great photos reveal even more in a single frame: the delicate balance between immense power and fragile beauty that surrounds us on Earth. Today's image of a natural arch carved into an Antarctic iceberg does exactly that—a conversation starter about grandeur, vulnerability, our environment, and its present and future.


date: 2025-12-02
filename: WillowLake_EN-US6664756735.jpg
title: A view that speaks volumes
copyright:
Willow Lake and Mount Blackburn, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska (© Patrick J. Endres/Getty Images)

story:
On December 2, 1980, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) reshaped America's conservation history. With one sweeping law, more than 104 million acres of Alaska's wild lands gained lasting protection, like the Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve, seen here, now the largest national park in the United States. ANILCA balanced preservation with tradition, safeguarding ecosystems while honoring rural subsistence rights.


date: 2025-12-03
filename: BosqueCranes_EN-US6752028797.jpg
title: Dawn of the cranes
copyright:
Sandhill cranes at sunrise, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico (© Jack Dykinga/Minden Pictures)

story:
Every December, as morning unfolds, a chorus of rattling calls fills the marshes of the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. This 57,000-acre sanctuary in central New Mexico prepares to stage one of nature's most stirring performances as sandhill cranes return from their seasonal journey. Soon, tens of thousands of snow geese and other migratory birds join the scene, filling the sky with movement and sound.


date: 2025-12-04
filename: CheetahMound_EN-US5447540393.jpg
title: Sprint for survival
copyright: Cheetah in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Narok, Kenya (© Andy Rouse/naturepl.com)
story:
High atop a termite mound in the Maasai Mara National Reserve—a protected savanna in southwestern Kenya—a cheetah scans the plains. Its sleek body can reach speeds of up to 70 mph, making it the fastest land mammal on Earth. Long legs and a flexible spine allow incredible acceleration, while its strong tail helps maintain balance during high-speed chases. Today is International Cheetah Day—an event that couldn't have arrived any quicker. With fewer than 7,100 individuals left in the wild, these are among Africa's most vulnerable big cats.


date: 2025-12-05
filename: CopanRuins_EN-US5517813382.jpg
title: The city that mapped the stars
copyright: Maya site of Copán, Honduras (© diegograndi/Getty Images)
story:
In a quiet valley of western Honduras lie the ruins of Copán—a city of the ancient Maya civilization. Its sky served as both compass and calendar, guiding celestial events and shaping temples, rituals, and the rhythm of life. Around 426 CE, K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo', a warrior from the Maya heartland, founded Copán and established its royal dynasty. The city became a center of Maya art, astronomy, and power.


date: 2025-12-06
filename: EvergladesSunrise_EN-US5606230133.jpg
title: Florida's living wetlands
copyright: Spider webs in Everglades National Park, Florida (© Troy Harrison/Getty Images)
story:
On Florida's southern tip lies one of the United States' most unusual landscapes. The Everglades is not a typical swamp or river. It is a slow, shallow sheet of water that drifts south across flat grasslands toward Florida Bay, linking forests, marshes, mangroves, and coastal prairies. This subtropical wilderness supports hundreds of species, including alligators, manatees, and the endangered Florida panther. On December 6, 1947, the United States established the Everglades National Park, protecting over 1.5 million acres and shifting conservation toward preserving entire ecosystems rather than isolated landmarks.


date: 2025-12-07
filename: PearlHarborDay_EN-US5774515492.jpg
title: Remembering Pearl Harbor
copyright: USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii (© Jessica O. Blackwell/APFootage/Alamy)
story:
At 7:55 AM on December 7, 1941, Japanese aircraft appeared over Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and the course of history changed. In less than two hours, 19 ships were sunk or damaged, nearly 200 aircraft destroyed, and 2,403 Americans lost their lives. The battleship USS Arizona suffered the most devastating hit: a bomb struck its forward deck, igniting ammunition below and sending the ship to the harbor floor. The surprise assault crippled the US Pacific Fleet and ended America's neutrality in World War II. The next day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt told Congress it was 'a date which will live in infamy,' and the US entered the war.


date: 2025-12-08
filename: ComoChristmas_EN-US5867954466.jpg
title: All is calm, all is bright
copyright: Christmas lights in Domaso, Lake Como, Italy (© Roberto Moiola/Getty Images)
story:
When the twinkling reflections on Italy's Lake Como outshine the stars, you know Christmas has docked in Domaso. Once a fishing village, this lakeside town now transforms each winter into a glittering display of holiday cheer, where pastel houses, old churches, and waterfront villas are wrapped in ribbons of light. The result? A picturesque Christmas scene.


date: 2025-12-09
filename: LlamaDay_EN-US5971354659.jpg
title: Say 'cheese'… or grass
copyright: Guanaco in Punta Norte, Argentina (© Sylvain Cordier/naturepl.com)
story:
If llamas are the laid-back stars of the Andes, their cousins, the guanacos, are the free spirits of Patagonia. And what better day to give them the spotlight than National Llama Day? Guanacos are part of the same camelid family as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. But unlike their domesticated relatives, they keep things wild. Found mainly in Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Bolivia, they're built for life at high altitude. Their thick coats help them handle chilly winds, while their padded feet give them the grip to trek across rocky terrain that would make even mountain goats nervous.


date: 2025-12-10
filename: CordobaCathedral_EN-US6045311068.jpg
title: Where cultures converge
copyright: Interior of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, Andalusia, Spain (© Elena Zolotova/Getty Images)
story:
The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is a chronicle of Spain's layered history. It began as a church built by the Germanic Visigoths, before being transformed into a mosque in 784 CE by Abd al-Rahman I, founder of the Umayyad Emirate of Córdoba. Its vast hypostyle hall, a space supported by rows of columns, features the famous red-and-white arches shown here. Today, it contains more than 850 columns, many reused from Roman and earlier Visigothic structures.


date: 2025-12-11
filename: EverestGlow_EN-US6131667612.jpg
title: Where the sky meets Earth
copyright: Summit of Mount Everest at sunset, seen from Renjo La, Nepal (© shoults/Alamy)
story:
Every December 11, we celebrate International Mountain Day, honoring the majestic peaks that shape our planet and the glaciers that support life. From the rolling Alps to the towering Himalayas, mountains cover nearly a quarter of Earth's land and host 15% of the world's population and nearly half of its biodiversity hotspots. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at over 29,000 feet, stands as a symbol of human aspiration and natural beauty. Its glaciers feed rivers sustaining millions, showing that mountains are more than scenery—they are lifelines.


date: 2025-12-12
filename: SpeckledPoinsettia_EN-US4098165068.jpg
title: The plant that paints the holidays red
copyright: Spotted poinsettia (© DigiPub/Getty Images)
story:
Some plants simply sit quietly on windowsills. The poinsettia? It demands the spotlight. Bright, bold, and as red as Rudolph's nose, this December diva even has its own holiday—National Poinsettia Day, celebrated on December 12. Prior to becoming a popular Christmas decoration, this shrub had quite a journey. Long before it appeared in living rooms, it grew wild in Mexico, where the Aztecs used it for dyes and medicine. Then, in the 1820s, US diplomat Joel Roberts Poinsett spotted the plant, fell for its charm, and sent it home. The rest, as they say, is history—and botany.


date: 2025-12-13
filename: YosemiteWinter_EN-US4786605896.jpg
title: Frozen reflections
copyright: Merced River, Yosemite National Park, California (© Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images)
story:
Every masterpiece needs a brushstroke to tie it together. For Yosemite National Park, that stroke is the Merced River—painting reflections of granite cliffs, pine forests, and waterfalls across its canvas. One of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers, this waterway begins high in the Sierra Nevada. It gathers meltwater and winds 145 miles west through Yosemite Valley into California's Central Valley.


date: 2025-12-14
filename: TuftedTitmouse_EN-US4835376471.jpg
title: The great holiday bird-off
copyright: Tufted titmouse perched on pine boughs, Massachusetts (© Tim Laman/NPL/Minden Pictures)
story:
Each December, thousands swap wrapping paper for binoculars and step outside for a different kind of holiday tradition: the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. Instead of hunting for bargains, they hunt for birds—with pencils, rather than pellets. Started in 1900 by ornithologist Frank M. Chapman, the count offered a peaceful alternative to the Christmas 'side hunts,' where people competed to shoot the most animals. Chapman had a better idea: count them instead. Over a century later, that simple shift has grown into the world's longest-running citizen-science project.


date: 2025-12-15
filename: AmsterdamLights_EN-US4980559514.jpg
title: Still waters, bright lights
copyright: Lights on Spiegelgracht canal, Amsterdam, Netherlands (© Amith Nag Photography/Getty Images)
story:
Have you ever wondered how canals changed the way cities developed? For thousands of years, people have built canals to transport goods, control water flow, and connect places. From ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt to medieval Europe, they transformed cities like Venice and Bruges into trade hubs. The Netherlands took this even further—by the 17th century, they were designing waterways that shaped cities such as Amsterdam.


date: 2025-12-16
filename: ChristmasGnomes_EN-US5094302697.jpg
title: Tiny hats, big spirits
copyright: Handmade gnomes at a Christmas market (© Veronika Seppanen/Shutterstock)
story:
They've got long beards, red hats, and a knack for stealing a tad bit of Santa's thunder every Christmas. Meet the gnome—known as 'tomte' in Sweden and 'nisse' in Norway—whose traditions vary across regions. Rooted in Scandinavian folklore, these tiny guardians watch over homes and farms, keeping families safe through long, dark winters. But there's a catch: treat them kindly, or they may play tricks. A warm bowl of porridge on Christmas Eve is their favorite reward. Said to bring luck and laughter, they might even befriend your garden gnomes, since they often resemble them.


date: 2025-12-17
filename: FrostySquirrel_EN-US5169660143.jpg
title: Fur, frost, and feast
copyright: Eurasian red squirrel in Northumberland, England (© Michael_Conrad/Getty Images)
story:
Who could resist that squishy face? A Eurasian red squirrel perches on a snowy pine branch, paws clutching a pine cone like it's the last snack on Earth. These little acrobats stay busy collecting nuts, seeds, and fungi—feasting on fresh finds in summer and on stored cones through winter.


date: 2025-12-18
filename: CathedralValley_EN-US5270905846.jpg
title: Layers of time in Utah
copyright: Temple of the Sun, Capitol Reef National Park, Utah (© Austin Cronnelly/TANDEM Stills + Motion)
story:
Rock layers formed over millions of years and a massive bend in the Earth's crust give this desert a rare window into geologic history. This is Capitol Reef National Park in Utah, where sandstone cliffs and canyons preserve a striking record of the planet's past. December 18 marks the anniversary of its designation as a national park in 1971. Today's featured image highlights the sandstone monoliths of Cathedral Valley, including the Temple of the Sun, part of this extraordinary, protected landscape.


date: 2025-12-19
filename: BormioItaly_EN-US5324526286.jpg
title: High mountains, deep history
copyright: Snow-covered landscape at Bormio, Lombardy, Italy (© Roberto Moiola/Getty Images)
story:
Bormio is a mountain town in northern Italy's Lombardy region, nestled in the Alps near the Stelvio Pass. This location has connected communities across mountain valleys for centuries, shaping how people live and move through the region. Today's image features Bormio's winter landscape, a reflection of its high-altitude setting and enduring bond with the surrounding peaks.


date: 2025-12-20
filename: StarLanterns_EN-US5419993556.jpg
title: Twinkle, twinkle, paper stars
copyright: Christmas star lanterns, Germany (© artas/Getty Images)
story:
As Christmas draws near, star lanterns begin to appear everywhere—twinkling from balconies, shining in shop windows, and lighting up market stalls. Their shimmer cuts through the long winter nights, filling streets and homes with joy, color, and a sense of togetherness. But behind these festive decorations lies a story as captivating as their glow.


date: 2025-12-21
filename: SwedenSolstice_EN-US5470044971.jpg
title: Birth of the new sun
copyright: Dawn light through frosty trees, Sweden (© Schon/Getty Images)
story:
Ever felt as if the night just wouldn't end? That's the winter solstice working its magic. It is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring around December 21 or 22. In the Southern Hemisphere, the same happens around June 21 or 22. It marks the moment when one of Earth's poles tilts farthest from the sun. From that instant, daylight slowly begins to lengthen again.


date: 2025-12-22
filename: NutcrackerAnkara_EN-US5537620581.jpg
title: From Hoffmann's pages to global stages
copyright:
'The Nutcracker' performed by the Turkish State Opera and Ballet in Ankara, Türkiye (© Anadolu/Getty Images)

story:
As Christmas approaches, each sunset gives way to a glow of festive lights, bringing a touch of wonder and preparing us for the holiday season. One of the world's most beloved stage works, 'The Nutcracker,' is rooted in this very sense of magic. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve, in the midst of holiday cheer, when Clara receives a nutcracker as a gift. As night falls and the household drifts into sleep, the little girl and her nutcracker embark on a fantastical journey—battling the Mouse King and wandering through the Land of Sweets. Among its most famous moments is the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy—the ruler of the Land of Sweets—accompanied by music that has become iconic. Tchaikovsky composed these enchanting melodies for the celesta, an instrument often called the bell-piano.


date: 2025-12-23
filename: ReindeerFinland_EN-US5636971050.jpg
title: Where holiday magic runs on hooves
copyright: Reindeer during winter snowfall, Lapland, Finland (© Roberto Moiola/Getty Images)
story:
Few creatures evoke the magic of the holidays quite like the reindeer. Also known as caribou, they are the spirit animals of Christmas lovers—and they rock it. Sturdy and sure-footed, they've been pulling Santa's sleigh ever since Clement Clarke Moore cast them in the role in his 1823 poem 'A Visit from Saint Nicholas.' And they were born for it. Their hooves shrink in winter to expose a gripping rim, then expand in warmer months for better traction. Still not impressed? Consider this: reindeer don't have an internal clock. Instead, their melatonin—the hormone that regulates sleep—adjusts to light and darkness, helping them stay awake through endless nights of gift delivery.


date: 2025-12-24
filename: ElmauChapel_EN-US5704228113.jpg
title: Traditions that travel
copyright: Snowy chapel with Christmas tree in the Bavarian Alps, Germany (© mauritius images GmbH/Alamy)
story:
As Christmas Eve arrives, millions embrace customs that connect us to our roots—or introduce us to entirely new cultures. In snowy regions like the Bavarian Alps in Germany—a frost-kissed landscape seen in today's image—festive lights glow against winter's chill. Elsewhere, the sun blazes brightly: think of the Caribbean, Australia, or Brazil, where Christmas often means golden beaches instead of frosty mornings.


date: 2025-12-25
filename: SantaGlobe_EN-US5819361091.jpg
title: Miniature worlds, infinite wonder
copyright: Snow globes at a Christmas market in Heidelberg, Germany (© George Pachantouris/Getty Images)
story:
Beneath Heidelberg's winter sky in Germany, stalls sparkle with snow globes, each capturing the spirit of the season in a miniature world. Today, Christmas—a Christian celebration of faith, light, and togetherness—invites us to welcome warmth and joy into the coldest days of the year. Across continents, candles glow on windowsills and garlands twine through homes and streets.


date: 2025-12-26
filename: WiltshireDawn_EN-US5663179833.jpg
title: Unboxed traditions
copyright: Salisbury Cathedral, Wiltshire, England (© Julian Elliott Photography/Getty Images)
story:
The best thing about Boxing Day is that it doesn't ask much of you. No big countdown. No dramatic unwrapping. No last-minute dashes for batteries. It's a rare holiday that says, 'Sit down, finish your leftovers, and take a moment.' Celebrated on December 26 in the United Kingdom and some Commonwealth countries, it's a national cool-down after Christmas has done all the heavy lifting. The term goes back to Victorian Britain, when households prepared Christmas boxes for workers and tradespeople—tokens of thanks that ranged from coins to essentials. Churches joined in by opening alms boxes and distributing donations.


date: 2025-12-27
filename: SuperiorIceMN_EN-US5952266924.jpg
title: Shards of winter
copyright: Plate ice along Lake Superior, Grand Marais, Minnesota (© wanderluster/Getty Images)
story:
When winter tightens its grip on Lake Superior in Minnesota, the shoreline transforms into a landscape of tilted, glass-like shards known as plate ice. Thin sheets fracture under shifting temperatures, then drift and stack as the wind presses them toward land. The result is a field of translucent blues and silvers, catching the light at sharp angles and making the water's edge appear sculpted rather than frozen.


date: 2025-12-28
filename: RuffedLemur_EN-US6014028083.jpg
title: What remains wild
copyright: Black-and-white ruffed lemur in Madagascar (© Cyrielle Beaubois/Getty Images)
story:
Fifty-one years after the Endangered Species Act (ESA) became law, its purpose remains clear: to protect species facing extinction and preserve the habitats they depend on. Signed in 1973, the ESA became one of the world's strongest conservation laws, influencing policies well beyond the United States. It demonstrates that recovery is possible when science and enforcement work together. Its influence on conservation is especially clear in species whose futures hinge on international attention. The black-and-white ruffed lemur of Madagascar is one such example. Many people recognize lemurs from the animated movie 'Madagascar,' but the real animal faces a much harsher reality. This striking primate is critically endangered, surviving in increasingly fragmented forests where habitat loss remains a constant threat.


