WITH the phosphorescent blobs and mesmerising patterns, these spectacular images may look like the hall marks of an enchanted forest but it is in fact the scene of thousands of dancing FIREFLIES. The luminous green lights that glow from the insects help to give the impression of an extract from a fairy-tale. The magical photographs were taken by photographer Takaaki Ishikawa, 55, on a trip to Nagoya City in Japan. 'Fireflies are very delicate creatures, so it is important to not catch or disturb them,' said Takaaki
PERCHING on top of a gate, this young barn swallow waits patiently for his mum to return with dinner .
STARING intently into the camera, a polar bear appears to be lost in thought while relaxing in the snow .
COVERING themselves in ash and face paint, these are the holy men who live their lives away from everyday society .
SPLASHING around in a paddling pool, this little elephant soaks up the sunshine .
A BABY-faced burglar is starting a seven year stretch in custody after being nabbed by a Jaffa Cake .
SWIMMING next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea .
A brave praying mantis makes an unusual friend in an Oriental garden lizard .
DIPPING his head into the vase of water, this little squirrel takes a refreshing break from an afternoon of eating .
Daniel Blore, 21, of Innage Crescent, Bridgnorth, stabbed his mother three times in the attack on January 11 this year, Stafford Crown Court heard .
GLAMPING is taken to a whole new level in the form of the luxurious Pop-Up Hotel .
THIS LITTLE squirrel tries to keep himself snug as snow starts to fall around him .