HIDDEN in the middle of the Mojave Desert, a secret oasis awaits intrepid travellers. The 11x5ft pool, located in south-eastern California, was built by Austrian visual artist Alfredo Barsuglia. The free retreat includes a solar-powered filter and chlorination system, but visitors face a challenge if they want to take a dip.
A trout manages to escape the jaws of a hungry cormorant - only to find itself back inside the bird's long beak .
Animal rescue volunteers have told how a cat riddled with cancer was forced to ripped off its own ears after it was abandoned by its owners .
A fox takes a tumble and lands on his head when he tries to fend off a pair of eagles in Japan .
DIVING boffins fired harpoons into 30-foot-long whale sharks in a bid to put the sea-beasts on Google Maps .
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 .
SQUEEZING their furry faces through a hole in a tree, a trio of curious baby squirrels leave their nest for the first time to explore their surroundings .
DASHING through the snow, this little stoat is on the lookout for a Christmas feast .
BASKING in smug satisfaction, a confident squirrel gives a wink to the camera .
A cheeky owl fancies a game of hide and seek as it peeps out from behind a tree .
WITH the mystical clouds forming a thick blanket and the electrifying lights below, these stunning pictures provide a unique view of the cityscape of Dubai taken from the tallest building in the world .
If you had to scrape the snow off your car this morning or slip-slide your way into work over icy pavements spare a thought for these little critters .
Sprawled out on top of a log, this sleeping leopard takes a relaxing break from his daily routine .