STRIKING photos capture nature at its most raw and powerful during Earth’s most electrifying event. Shot over the Grand Canyon and even downtown Los Angeles, these amazing images of lightning were taken by American photographer Scott Stulberg, 57. His love of lightning led him to move to the state of Arizona, renowned for its high frequency of storms. ‘No matter where I am, I always feel like a little kid again when I see lightning,’says Scott, of Sedona, Arizona.
A carefree bear cub reclines in the water with his feet raised in the air .
WITH a paw in the air and his tongue hanging from his mouth, it is clear to see that this little groundhog is struggling to wake up and leave behind the comfort of his burrow .
ROLLING around in the snow, these young brown bears take a break from their play fight to share a tender hug with one another .
WITH A wide smile plastered across his face, this little gecko is ready for his close up .
A photographer from the United Arab Emirates travelled to Pakistan where he captured the lives of local people in a series of expressive portraits .
Fishermen in Myanmar have perfected an unusual fishing technique by carefully balancing on one leg .
HUNDREDS of hot air balloons decorate the sky above Turkey as the rising sun illuminates the spectacular scenery below .
An adorable little squirrel wakes from a nap and pops out his tongue for the camera .
SHOVELLING food into his mouth, this hungry gorilla enjoys a peaceful moment at dinner time .
SNUGGLING up against their teddy bears, these baby sloths could easily be mistaken for one of the cuddly toys .
A brave praying mantis makes an unusual friend in an Oriental garden lizard .
From a platter of finger licking chicken wings to a bowl of Chinese noodle soup, these foodie snaps are enough to make your savoury saliva glands drool .