One of the main attractions in Malta is the Blue Wall and Grotto Cave view, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, as tourists flock here to view the stunning cave via local boat tours (which are rarely crowded, despite the large numbers). It is also a very popular diving and snorkeling spot, with its clear, clean, and deep waters. The view provides stunning panoramic views of the island’s surroundings, with its distinctive rock formation.
Bali has long been known as Asia’s tourist paradise with its beautiful scenery and attentive service. The stretches of pure white sand beaches, clear blue water that see the bottom and a pleasant climate will make visitors fall in love. In Bali, there are countless places and activities for tourists to explore. The highlight of which is Bali Swing – a thrilling “swinging” game and also a place of “excellent virtual living”. Bali Swing is known as the “most dangerous swing in the world”, the place to create unique photos that every visitor wants to have when coming to Bali.
Sea Island, King Kong
King Kong, from the special drama movie “King Kong”, the prototype setting is a gorilla. This behemoth has a height of tens of meters, and its stature is extremely huge. It has great strength and a certain amount of wisdom. It is not just a simple development of limbs.
There are also many movies directed at King Kong, such as “King Kong”, “King Kong vs. Godzilla” and so on.
The islands on the sea in the picture are made by petites based on the actual islands. It looks like a King Kong with limbs inserted in the sea.
For centuries, humanity has been captivated by the idea of sea monsters lurking beneath the waves. While the Loch Ness Monster might reign supreme in the popular imagination, the world of paleontology offers a far more compelling and, crucially, real contender: the mighty Plesiosaur.
And now, thanks to cutting-edge technology, we’re getting a breathtaking new glimpse at these ancient rulers of the sea. Scientists have painstakingly created a stunning 3D scan of a remarkably well-preserved Plesiosaur fossil, offering an unprecedented level of detail and bringing this prehistoric predator back to life in a way never before possible.
Meet the Plesiosaur: Not Your Average Lizard
Plesiosaurs weren’t dinosaurs, but they shared their reign during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Imagine a reptile with a long, elegant neck, a surprisingly small head, a broad body, and powerful flippers. This striking combination made them exceptional swimmers and formidable hunters. They patrolled the ancient oceans, snapping up fish, squid, and anything else unfortunate enough to cross their path.
These magnificent creatures vanished along with the dinosaurs during the infamous Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, leaving behind a legacy of fossils that continue to fascinate and inform us about the history of life on Earth.
From Fossil to Fantastically Detailed 3D Model
The star of this story is a particularly impressive Plesiosaur fossil, unearthed and carefully preserved over the years. While paleontologists have studied these remains for decades, traditional methods of analysis have their limitations. Enter 3D scanning technology.
By meticulously scanning the fossil from every angle, scientists were able to create a highly accurate and detailed digital model. This model then underwent further processing, allowing researchers to:
Examine intricate details: The 3D scan reveals subtle features and bone structures that are difficult or impossible to see with the naked eye. This allows for a deeper understanding of the Plesiosaur’s anatomy and biomechanics.
Virtually reconstruct missing pieces: Even the best fossils are rarely complete. The 3D model allows scientists to digitally “fill in” missing bones based on anatomical knowledge and comparisons with other Plesiosaur specimens.
Create interactive displays: The 3D model isn’t just for scientists. It can be used to create interactive displays and virtual exhibits, bringing the Plesiosaur to life for museum visitors and online audiences alike.
Why This Matters: A Window into the Past
The 3D scan of this ancient sea dragon provides us with invaluable insights into the biology, evolution, and behavior of Plesiosaurs. By studying the model, researchers can:
Understand their movement: Examining the bone structure of the flippers and spine can shed light on how these creatures propelled themselves through the water.
Analyze their feeding habits: The shape and size of the skull and teeth can reveal what they ate and how they hunted.
Trace their evolutionary history: Comparing this Plesiosaur with other specimens can help us understand how these creatures evolved and diversified over millions of years.
The Future of Paleontology is 3D
This stunning 3D reconstruction is just one example of how technology is revolutionizing paleontology. 3D scanning, printing, and virtual reality are transforming the way we study and interact with fossils, offering exciting new possibilities for research, education, and public engagement.
So, next time you hear about the Loch Ness Monster, remember that the real sea monsters of the past were even more impressive. Thanks to the power of 3D scanning, we’re getting closer than ever to understanding these ancient giants and unraveling the mysteries of the prehistoric oceans. The ancient seas may be gone, but their magnificent reptiles continue to inspire awe and wonder, brought to life once more through the brilliance of modern technology.
30 Amazing Wood Sculptures Made From The Pieces Found On Beaches
Wood scυlptυres are пot somethiпg пew. However, this artist, Jeffro Uitto, who goes by the пame “Kпock oп Wood” oп social media, maпages to beпd wood to his imagiпatioп iп sυch a υпiqυe way that it does пot eveп begiп to compare to others. Usiпg varioυs pieces of wood, mostly foυпd oп the beaches iп Washiпgtoп State, USΑ, Jeffro creatively traпsforms them iпto beaυtifυl scυlptυres that most ofteп depict aпimals – horses, eagles, rhiпos, lioпs, amoпg maпy others.
“Oп the Washiпgtoп coast, there’s a place where пatυre’s leftovers get a secoпd chaпce at stardom. The place is Kпock oп Wood, aпd [I am] the artist makiпg the magic happeп.” – says Uitto oп his website.
Wheп startiпg a scυlptυre, Uitto has aп iпitial idea of what will be doпe bυt adapts as the work progresses. He пever kпows exactly what will resυlt from his work. Jeffo says that ever siпce he was a child, he liked collectiпg wood, especially driftwood that had patterпs beateп iпto them by the waves. Αlthoυgh driftwood is hard, it is almost as if it has emotioпs of its owп that briпg iпspiratioп to the artist. Throυgh his υпiqυe artworks, the artist waпts to emphasize that each object has its owп ‘life’. Α life that caп be coпveyed as a work of art.
Most of Jeffro’s tools are haпdmade by the artist himself, which is ofteп sυrprisiпg for visitors that stυmble across his shop пear the historic Tokelaпd Hotel. However, oпce yoυ get to kпow the artist better, yoυ realize that пot oпly are the cυstom tools пot sυrprisiпg, they are, iп fact, expected. It is evideпt that Jeffro Uitto is aп artist who bυrпs hot with aп iпextiпgυishable passioп for his wood art aпd his scυlptυres attest to that.
“It’s really пatυre-iпspired, the love aпd cυriosity for the sυbjects aпd the iпfiпity of materials. It’s really hυmbliпg to see how maпy people coппect with these scυlptυre artworks. It’s also importaпt to briпg atteпtioп to these aпimals, their mysterioυs beaυty, aпd the extiпctioп they face.” – said the artist to Bored Paпda.
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
#15
#16
#17
#18
#19
#20
#21
#22
#23
#24
#25
#26
#27
#28
#29
#30
Artist Forages for Driftwood, Turns What He Finds Into Awe-Inspiring Animal Sculptures
In Finland, a rare and intriguing natural phenomenon has recently been spotted, known as “ice eggs.” These icy spheres form under highly specific conditions, making the sighting a unique and remarkable one. The discovery was made by Risto Mattila, an amateur photographer, and his wife, as they were strolling along Marjaniemi beach on Hailuoto island. The beach was entirely covered by an expanse of small icy balls that stretched out over 30 meters (98ft), creating an awe-inspiring sight.
Mattila described the largest of the eggs to be about the size of a football, which is quite remarkable when you consider that these spheres are created by natural processes. As an amateur photographer, he was amazed by the phenomenon and had never seen anything like it before. Experts agree that this occurrence is not common and requires highly specific conditions to form.
Jouni Vainio, an ice specialist at the Finnish Meteorological Institute, explained that “ice eggs” can form under the right circumstances, which include the right air and water temperature, shallow and gently sloping sandy beach, calm waves or a light swell, and something that acts as a core. This core starts collecting ice around it, and as the swell moves it along the beach, the icy spheres grow in size, creating a remarkable sight.
According to Dr. James Carter, an emeritus professor of geography-geology at Illinois State University, autumn is the best time to see this phenomenon. During this season, the surface of the water starts freezing, creating a slush-like substance that moves with the waves. As the slush gets pushed up the beach, it can start to freeze and create the small balls that make up the ice eggs. This formation process is fascinating to witness and is one of nature’s many awe-inspiring events.
While these icy spheres may look like man-made decorations, they are entirely natural, formed under highly specific weather and environmental conditions. The fact that they are so rare to see makes this discovery all the more remarkable. For those interested in seeing this phenomenon, it is crucial to visit during autumn and be on the lookout for the right conditions.
Argentinean sculptor Adrián Villar Rojas is a visionary artist who transports viewers into otherworldly realms through his monumental sculptural works. With an uncanny ability to blend elements of science fiction and surrealism, Villar Rojas creates pieces that leave a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness them. Among his impressive body of work, one particular piece stands out as a personal favorite: “My Family Dead” (2009).
Located in the enchanting woods outside Ushuaia, Argentina, “My Family Dead” features a life-size blue whale that appears to have been beached in this unlikely setting. The sculpture’s presence amidst the trees evokes a sense of intrigue and wonder. Upon closer inspection, one notices the whale’s skin, marked with pockmarks caused by tree stumps. This detail raises questions about the relationship between the sculpture and its surroundings. Is the forest slowly reclaiming the whale, or is it a native inhabitant of this mystical realm?
Villar Rojas’ ability to merge natural elements with fantastical creations is awe-inspiring. His works transcend traditional artistic boundaries, challenging viewers to question their perception of reality. Each piece becomes a portal to a parallel universe, where imagination reigns supreme.
“My Family Dead” encapsulates the beauty and allure of Villar Rojas’ artistic vision. It invites viewers to step into a world where the line between fiction and reality blurs, where the mundane and the extraordinary coexist. The sculpture not only captivates with its sheer scale but also invites contemplation about the delicate balance between nature and human intervention.
Adrián Villar Rojas’ contribution to the art world goes beyond his ability to craft visually stunning sculptures. Through his work, he ignites a spark of curiosity and wonder within viewers, encouraging them to explore the boundaries of their own imagination. By seamlessly blending elements of science fiction and surrealism, Villar Rojas invites us to question the limitations of what is possible and embrace the power of creativity.
In conclusion, Argentinean sculptor Adrián Villar Rojas is a true master of his craft. Through his extraordinary creations, such as “My Family Dead,” he transports us to extraordinary realms where art and fantasy intertwine. Villar Rojas’ ability to challenge our perceptions and ignite our imagination makes him a visionary artist of our time. His work serves as a reminder that art has the power to transcend boundaries and open new doors to unimaginable
A Wildlife Hospital in the U.K. recently received a unique ‘guest’ – a flamboyant-looking bird that caught the attention of some kind-hearted individuals. Found stranded by the roadside and unable to fly, the bright orange bird appeared to be of tropical origin, prompting the concerned citizens to take it to the Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital for medical attention. However, it was later discovered that the seemingly exotic bird was in fact a common seagull that had managed to cover itself entirely in curry.
More info: Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital
“This is one of the strangest casualty circumstances we have seen in a while!”
Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital took to their Facebook page to share the story of a rescued herring gull that had caught the attention of some compassionate passersby. The kind-hearted individuals had noticed the bright-orange bird stranded at the side of the A41 and immediately took action to help. When the hospital received the call about an “orange bird,” they had no idea what to expect and were surprised to find the unique-looking herring gull in their care.
“He had somehow gotten himself covered in curry or turmeric”
The veterinarians at the Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital made a startling discovery when they examined the rescued herring gull. According to them, the bird was covered from head to toe in curry, which had made it difficult for him to fly normally. Despite the strange and pungent appearance of the bird, the veterinarians were relieved to find that he was in good health. As they pondered on how the bird had ended up in this situation, they couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer absurdity of the situation.
“Apart from the vibrant colour and pungent smell, he was healthy”
Vinny, the herring gull that was rescued and brought to the Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, was given a much-needed bath by the veterinary team. The bird had been covered in curry, which had made his feathers sticky and difficult to clean. Despite initially protesting the cleaning process, Vinny eventually allowed the team to wash him thoroughly. In fact, the bird looked quite handsome after his bath, although he did seem slightly irritated with the entire ordeal. The veterinary team even named him Vinny, after the spicy Vindaloo curry that he was covered in.
“He is now looking much better and should be able to go for release very soon”
Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital expressed their gratitude towards the kind individuals who had rescued Vinny, the herring gull, from his curry-covered predicament. The hospital staff noted that they are always prepared for the unexpected and never know what kind of animals may need their help. Nevertheless, they were glad to be able to assist Vinny and ensure that he was healthy and clean once again. As they bid farewell to the unique-looking bird, the staff at Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital hoped that Vinny had learned his lesson and wouldn’t find himself in such a sticky situation again.
The streaked tenrec is a peculiar little creature that looks like a cross between a hedgehog, a porcupine – and a zebra. And it sports a mohawk!
Look at that amazing ‘hairstyle’! Image credit: Alan Harper
Found only in Madagascar, the lowland streaked tenrec (Hemicentetes semispinosus) is known for its unusual appearance, as well as its peculiar behaviors and adaptations.
This adorable little critter (its average site is 140 mm or 5.5 in) has spikes all over its body, which it uses to protect itself from predators. But the most notable feature of the streaked tenrec’s appearance is its yellow or chestnut-brown stripes that run the length of the body on its black spiny pelage, making it look like it’s wearing a little zebra costume. It’s hard not to smile when you see a streaked tenrec running around with its cute little stripes.
A tentrec nosing something out. Probably an earthworm. Image credit: Charles Hesse
Now, let’s move on to some of the streaked tenrec’s more interesting behaviors. One of the most unique things about these animals is their ability to echolocate. That’s right, just like bats, streaked tenrecs use sound waves to navigate their environment and find prey. They produce clicking sounds with their mouths and then listen for the echoes to determine the location of their prey.
Additionally, the stridulation sounds produced by their specialized spikes have also been linked to having an echolocatory function. It’s like they have their own little built-in sonar system!
Hallo, a tentrec is coming! Image credit: Frank Vassen
Before giving birth, a pregnant female will excavate a depression in the ground inside the burrow, utilizing her snout as a spade. In order to deter potential predators, the Streaked tenrec will exhibit its quills. If compelled to confront another species, it will employ a forceful headbutt with the goal of immobilizing its adversary.
The lowland streaked tenrec is active both day and night and primarily feeds on earthworms, although it may also consume other invertebrates. To facilitate foraging, it will occasionally stamp its fore-paws on the ground, which is believed to enhance earthworm activity. Similar to other tenrecs, it possesses a long snout suitable for digging in the ground to locate its food. However, the streaked tenrec’s consumption of earthworms may lead to tooth corrosion due to the dirt’s tendency to cause scratches and pits.
Birds have always been a challenge to study closely because they are so fast and can just fly away when you approach them.
This is what inspired Lisa, aka Ostdrossel, to put a camera in her feeder, which captured some really incredible photos of a variety of species of birds.
What’s special is that the birds have no idea they are being filmed, so they let their personalities out.
From a couple of birds having a shouting match to two doves ‘kissing,’ the camera captures a wide range of fascinating shots.
Most of the birds are just there to have a snack, one of our favorites is a crow who has a mouthful of kernels making it looks like a toothy smile.
Lisa shares on Tumblr how her setup works, “it consists of this camera box, much like a trail camera, that has a macro lens on the top and a regular one on the bottom.”
So inside the box, there is a shelf where the camera is placed, this camera has a motion sensor which can take 10 pictures each second.
Once a bird lands on the box, the motion sensor triggers and the camera starts taking pictures. The camera can take up to 7,000 photos in a day!
“My evening pleasure and routine is to go through all of them, delete the bad ones and keep and slightly edit the ones I deem publishable.”
You can follow Lisa’s work on Instagram and buy a selection of it as photo postcards through Etsy
Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is the most powerful and largest eagle in the world. In Guyana, South America by Leon Moore.
Harpy eagles are known to be fierce and peculiar birds. Their features include an expressive face and crown of feathers. This bird with its striking appearance is sure to take your breath away. Its majestic nature is not the only awe-inspiring thing about this bird.
Even its wingspan and height are sure to impress you. This gorgeous bird measures up to 3 feet and 5 inches in height. The harpy eagle’s wingspan reaches up to 7 feet and 4 inches. Some humans have even compared the harpy eagle to a Pokémon. Others declare that its appearance is similar to that of a person cosplaying a bird.
These birds live in rainforests in America and have managed to gain much popularity among humans due to their outstanding size and mesmerizing appearance. The harpy eagle is larger in comparison to the bald eagle. Bald eagles weigh about 12 pounds, while harpy eagles weigh around 13-20 pounds. The males as well as the females of the species sport grey, black and white plumage.
The raised feathers on their head give them a puzzled appearance. This bird of prey owns big talons and those talons are 5 inches long and are considered as the largest in the bird kingdom. With talons as large as this, it is no wonder that the harpy eagle is at the top of its food chain.
This bird feeds mainly on sloths, deer, and even monkeys. However, their diet is not limited to these animals. They have great eyesight and amazing flying skills, enabling them to easily identify and pick off tree-dwelling prey. The talons are very useful when hunting for prey and allow them to pick up prey that weighs around 17 pounds from the ground. Sadly there are less than 50,000 harpy eagles currently existing in the world. It is our duty and responsibility to conserve these majestic creatures in order to ensure their existence.
Greetings from the largest eagle in the world.
Image Credit: DecorahPagent
Camouflaging with the tree branch be like.
Image Credit: leon_moore_nature_experience
Just look at that adorable crown of feathers on its head.
Image Credit: cuatrok77
Now that looks like a bird who came right out of a horror movie.
Image Credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
The look you give someone when they say something absurd.
Wildlife photography is an incredibly demanding art that requires much more than one would initially imagine. Just picture yourself sitting partially submerged in water with mosquitoes buzzing around you, enduring sweltering heat for hours on end, or spending a freezing night in the woods, all while remaining quiet and still to gain the trust of wild animals and capture the perfect shot. On top of that, one needs to be extremely fortunate for the animal to even appear. Wildlife photography is a blend of patience, time, skill, love for animals, and luck. And with luck, one can capture perfectly timed photos that are so incredible that if you blinked, you’d miss them.
We’ve compiled 50 examples of perfectly timed photos of funny animals that may appear to be solely the result of luck. However, there’s much more to it than that, as the popular saying goes: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Check out our amazing and fascinating compilation of animal pictures below.
